More than 80 brides dusted down their old wedding dresses and wore them again in a bid to raise money for a charity that supports injured military service personnel.

East Anglian Daily Times: X factor band Next of Kin with some of the bridesX factor band Next of Kin with some of the brides (Image: Archant)

The flamboyant event held at Prested Hall in Feering on Sunday evening was inspired by Abi Neill, the owner of Colchester-based bridal and menswear business Abigail’s Collection & The Groom’s Room.

The red-carpet bash attracted more than 100 guests and raised almost £3,000 for Chavasse VC House in Colchester – one of Help For Heroes’ four rehabilitation centres.

Mrs Neill said: “Brides constantly tell us that they would love to wear their wedding dresses again – over the years I can honestly say we’ve heard it virtually weekly.

“Our charity party was all about raising funds for Help For Heroes but it also gave our customers and business friends the very best excuse to dust off our dresses, pop back on our tiaras and get together for a really splendid wedding dress bash.”

Guests at the party enjoyed a range of entertainment including a performance by X Factor stars Next of Kin, who are currently participating in music workshops at Chavasse VC House.

Help For Heroes county co-ordinator, Sue Morgan, said she was impressed with the amount of effort that had gone into organising the evening.

She added: “Everyone looked absolutely marvellous. It is thanks to businesses such as Abigail’s Collection that we are able to provide our guys with the care and facilities that provide the best possible chance of a fulfilling future.”