Former Ipswich Town Football Club legend George Burley took to the catwalk to help shine a light on a charity that supported him through a recent cancer battle.
The man who got ITFC back in the big time in 2000, participated in a fashion show organised by Cancer Support Suffolk.
The occasion took place at Suffolk New College, and all models were cancer patients themselves, or they had a close connection with cancer.
Over 200 guests supported the Suffolk-based benevolent cause that supports hundreds of people every year.
After a relaxed reception, the show commenced, and a host of people who had been helped by the organisation based in Ipswich triumphantly took to the stage.
Mark Murphy is the CEO of Cancer Support Suffolk, and he was delighted with the event that raised £5,500.00.
Mr Murphy said: “The models were amazing, the atmosphere was electric, and the evening was incredibly uplifting. Thanks to everyone who came along to support us.
“The event wouldn’t have happened with the expertise of Pam Davis, Barbara Thomas and their team. Their hard work ensured we had a wonderful evening. It was such a success, we’ll be doing it again next year.”
Former ITFC boss, George Burley, was the last to model, and he joyously entered the stage in a kilt.
On his outfit, he said: “It was a bit draughty’.
In terms of Cancer Support Suffolk, he said: “The charity is part of the community, they helped me a great deal, and they also help so many others. My message to everyone is don’t hide away from it (cancer), go to your doctor if you are worried and stay optimistic.”
He was also asked if he would take the Ipswich job if he got a call from the club. On this, the former Scottish international said: “Those days (of management are gone). Kieran will be sadly missed, I hope we have a great season – and we find the right man for the job.”
One of the models who took to the stage was Kerry King, 49, from Dedham. She said: Cancer Support supported me when I was in the midst of chemotherapy. My confidence (at that time) was knocked. I sourced out local support in terms of using makeup to make me look less ill back in December 2024.
They (the charity) see you and hear you, and they resonated with me. I have just finished treatment and got the all clear. So, when I got the call to get involved in the fashion show. I wanted to give something back.
“It was my first time as a model. I felt proud – and to see my family sitting round one table was emotional as it’s been a massive journey for them as well.”
Another model was Chris Myhill. Chris, 61, from Levington, is one of the counsellors for Cancer Support Suffolk. He said, “I work for them two mornings a week. The way the charity has been set up means it gives huge support to people. Instead of having to wait for a referral, they can come straight to us for counselling (and support in general).”
In relation to being a model, he added: “I said yes to being a model in a moment of madness – but I think the event was absolutely fantastic.”
Principal and CEO of the educational establishment is Alan Pease. He was proud to support this occasion. His wife, Angela, recently received support from Cancer Support Suffolk. He said: “I know firsthand of the work that Cancer Support Suffolk does, thanks to the incredibly brilliant help they gave to my wife Angela. It was our absolute privilege to support this amazing charity and host this inspirational event.”
In addition to the college hosting, around 15 staff gave up their time to work at this event, beauty students helped models with hair and make-up, catering learners created food dishes, and those on carpentry courses created a wooden box that will be used for donations.