BLUSHING brides stole the show in a County Durham market town as they celebrated the upcoming Royal wedding in style.

Service users of Innovations, a charity which supports people with learning disabilities, donned white gowns and played the part of the bridegroom at The Junction, in Bishop Auckland, yesterday.

Almost 20 brides showcased their dresses in a fashion show while director Jennifer Howe gave the audience a rundown of its history - who owned it, when it was worn and where it was worn.

Hazel Kennedy, development officer for Innovations, said: "Because the service users were all talking about the Royal wedding coming up, staff and users wanted to get involved.

"The idea was to get dressed up as brides and grooms, best men, bridesmaids and wedding guests. It's been a really good day."

Staff, family and friends donated their special gowns for the event while some of the staff and service users helped upcycle or make dresses.

Following the catwalk show, all guests and members of the wedding party tucked into tea and cake.