A GROUP of Burnham fundraisers who have been left distraught at the death of a close friend, are hosting a fashion show in her honour.

Somerset Breakthrough Breast Cancer group member Julie Selway, 36, described as a “breath of fresh air” by her friends, lost her battle with breast cancer on April 15.

A fashion show at the BASC Ground, in Stoddens Road, Burnham, on May 19, which Julie had been looking forward to attending, will now be held in her honour.

The Breakthrough Breast Cancer group has vowed to raise as much cash as possible for the charity in memory of Julie.

Chairman Christine Piper told the Weekly News: “Julie was very outgoing and extremely organised - we joke because I think she was quite shocked when she joined the group as we are so disorganised!

“After 13 years some of us had got into a bit of a rut but when Julie joined in 2008 she was like a breath of fresh air and her enthusiasm gave us all a massive boost, and she will be sadly missed.”

The group, which is predominantly made up of members from the Burnham and Highbridge area, has raised more than £250,000 for Breakthrough Breast Cancer since 1997.

Christine added: “We try to promote breast cancer awareness across the county and the fashion show meant a lot to Julie so we are dedicating it to her memory.

“It brings it home to you when someone close dies from it.”

Tickets for the Handbags and Gladrags show on May 19, to be hosted by BBC Somerset's Emma Britton, cost £10 on the door, including a drinks reception.

For more information about the bash contact Christine on 01278-793870.