YOUNG people at a Gourock secondary school are gathering glittering gladrags to help make next year's prom more affordable for pupils - and better for the environment. 

Students at St Columba's High are urging people across Inverclyde to have a clearout of their wardrobes and donate any unwanted dresses and suits to their new 'prom shop'. 

The young people have already assembled an array of gorgeous gowns and sharp suits, ready to be modelled by sixth years at the end of term event at The Chartroom in May, and are on the lookout for more donations. 

The school's prom committee, assisted by creative industries students, have been supported by teachers Kerry Miller and Candice Leckie in their project. 

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Kerry says the bank of donations will ensure no young person has to worry about whether or not they can afford an outfit for the prom. 

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Kerry, who is principal teacher of religious education at St Columba's, said: "It's about affordability and sustainability.

"We're very aware of the growing cost of living crisis and how it's affecting everyone. 

"Everything is becoming so much more expensive. 

"Going to the prom is a big thing for the pupils, it's a huge occasion. 

"We don't want any young people to have to be concerned about getting a dress or a suit."

Kerry says the school has been 'blown away' by the generosity of people all over Inverclyde.

She added: "The response has been huge. 

"We've already had a lot of donations of beautiful clothes."

The school has assembled a top team of talented crafters, ably assisted by fashion and textile students, who will be able to make alterations to outfits. 

The young people are also keen to hear from businesses that are getting rid of any garments which could be repaired. 

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Head girl Alex Cushnaghan, who is a creative industries student, says the prom shop also ties in with what pupils have been learning about sustainability. 

Alex said: "So many people will buy an outfit for the prom and only wear it once and then bin it. 

"We believe that someone else should get the use of it. 

"We want to get rid of any stigma that people have about wearing clothes that aren't new. 

"It's a great project to be involved in and we're hoping it might help us create our own 'circular fashion' brand."

Outfits can be handed into the school office and St Columba's will also accept donations of accessories. 

To find out more call the school on 01475 715250.