TWO students with designs on a career in the fashion industry have been given a head start by a Darlington bridal wear studio.

Sade Betiku and Sarah Hutchinson, both 18, are working with mother and daughter team, Mary Blair and Clare Bartlett at Chloe's Bridal Wear - and making a considerable impression.

Sade and Sarah are soon to begin a new fashion course at Darlington College of Technology. The popular National Diploma in Fashion and Clothing, which starts in September, is designed to open the door to a career in the highly competitive fashion industry.

Sade, from Brompton-on-Swale, and Sarah, from Bishop Auckland, work at Chloe's one day a week, learning the practical skills and gaining invaluable experience - a placement they will continue throughout the diploma course.

Sarah said: "I am really looking forward to the course and, in the meantime, I am gaining really good work experience as well as learning a lot of new skills."

Mrs Blair said: "It gives young people a chance in what is becoming a dying trade. The girls are getting all-round experience because not only do we sell designer dresses, we design and alter wedding dresses, occasion wear, bridesmaid dresses and mother-of-the-bride outfits."