STAFF AT the Blairgowrie branch of Barnardo’s dressed up in bridal outfits yesterday as part of world wedding day.

The shop asked women who no longer required their wedding outfits or bridesmaid dresses to hand them in.

Shop manager Jane Townsley said, “This was a really exciting day for the staff and volunteers and we had a really fun day, while also raising awareness and funds to help disadvantaged children.

“We took part in the event last year which was really successful. As well as helping to raise sponsorship, we would also like to appeal to women in and around Blairgowrie to donate bridal clothes to our shop.

“Wedding dresses are very special to women but can often end up gathering dust in the cupboard because they may only be worn for the special occasion and the dresses would help us to continue to raise valuable funds for vulnerable children in Scotland.”

The Blairgowrie shop is also looking for more volunteers, and those chosen will receive full training.

Ms Townsley said, “Our current volunteers tell us how rewarding it is to help out at the shop. Volunteering gives people the opportunity to gain experience and develop news skills to help them find work, use existing skills and feel they are part of the community.”

Money raised by the Barnardo’s Scotland shop in Blairgowrie goes towards services such as Hopscotch (Perth and Kinross) which supports children and young people affected by alcohol misuse in the family through one-to-one befriending, health education, and family support.