TWO North-East women who experienced breast cancer strutted down the catwalk to prove that having the disease does not have to destroy confidence and self esteem.

Mary Lee, from Stokesley, North Yorkshire, and Ruth Wallace, from Guisborough, east Cleveland, were among 22 models taking part in a charity fashion show at the Hilton Hotel, London, in front of a star-studded audience of supporters.

The event, in aid of Breast Cancer Care, was hosted by TV presenter Claire Sweeney, with celebrities including actress Lynda Bellingham and former fitness guru Diana Moran among those attending.

The models, from all age groups, wore clothes in themes such as the Moulin Rouge, Bollywood, a wedding party and lingerie.

Mrs Lee said it was "brilliant" to be involved in the show.

The 59-year-old, who has suffered cancer twice in the past 11 years and has campaigned on a local level for a long time, said: "It is so important that we give people a message of hope.

"Having a diagnosis of cancer like this is quite devastating, but for me it has meant I have gone on to do so many things I wouldn't have done before."

Ms Wallace, 29, was diagnosed with breast cancer in September 2000. Now in remission but still on medication, she said: "It is important to get across that it does affect younger women and that it can happen to you.

"If you can show women that you can get on with your life even if you have had breast cancer, that is also very important."