A CLOTHES shop regularly visited by the late Sir Bobby Robson’s wife has raised hundreds of pounds for a charity set up in his name.

Elena Degnan, owner of Jayne Ladies Boutique, in Sedgefield, County Durham, has welcomed Lady Elsie Robson to her store for a number of years.

Mrs Degnan, who took over the shop three years ago, said she is often paid a visit but only found out last year the identity behind the loyal customer.

“Every six to seven weeks Lady Elsie comes into the shop and sometimes buys something or just has a cup of tea and a chat,” said the trained colour consultant. “In about October or November she brought in a news letter and she said this is what I do.”

Mrs Degnan said the widow told her about the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation and she decided to do something as a means of thanking her for her custom.

“I thought ‘this is a brilliant charity’,” she added. “This is an awful disease and the charity is doing fantastic research and there is so much progress.

“You know where the money is going.”

The boutique owner hosts fashion shows twice a year and decided to hold the showing of her spring collection in aid of the charity.

Nine models, including a handful from the town’s Slimming World, walked down the catwalk at the transformed Sedgefield Parish Hall earlier this month, each showing off four to five outfits from a range suitable for women of any age.

The sold-out show was attended by a charity spokesperson who delivered a talk while Lady Elsie drew the raffle.

Jill Green from House of Colour was also on hand to discuss colour choices when it comes to fashion.

It raised almost £700 for the foundation and will be handed over by Mrs Degnan on Wednesday.