Stepping out in style for our Sam

Seven classmates of Sam Bottomley took to the catwalk last Friday evening for a fundraising fashion show in his name.

They were kitted out by local clothes shops Missing Label and Ushiwear, who both donated 10 per cent of all sales on the night to the Sam’s Wish to Walk appeal.

They were joined on the catwalk at Lower Hopton School by mums from Team Sam, older sisters and six-year-old Sam himself.

Sam’s family, who live in nearby Calder Road, must raised £35,000 if Sam is to have an operation and intensive physiotherapy that could allow him to walk independently. Team Sam member Claire Bennett said: “We were worried about how the children would be on the night, but they were great. They really enjoyed it. They conquered their nerves and got out there for Sam.

“It was so lovely because we had really fantastic support from people who know Sam and his family through school, but also the local community.”

Businesses lent their support by donating raffle prizes, while Maughan’s Bakery gave all the buns served at the event.

The event raised £1,388, taking the appeal total to more than £9,400.

Mrs Bennett said: “It was a fantastic success. It just felt like a really good community event. People have been saying they’re proud to be from Mirfield and to see how everyone’s helping.

“It’s not just that one event and it doesn’t feel like it’s the family who are driving it. One of the great successes of the fashion show is it has inspired other people who are going to organise fundraisers.”

Meanwhile, customers at The Flower Pot in Lower Hopton can do their bit from today by supping a pint of Sam’s Wish to Walk.

The pub owned by Ossett Brewery has rebranded its popular Yorkshire Blonde and designed a special pump clip for the brew.

Two barrels of the beer have been donated, with every penny from each £2.50 pint going to the appeal.