Salon boss' beauty of an idea to help schools raise vital cash

A SALON owner is aiming to get pupils at every school across Edinburgh and the Lothians strutting their stuff at their very own fundraising fashion show.

Dian Ward, who owns three local salons, aims to raise money at every school by offering mini fashionistas a manicure, new outfit and hair and make-up session, before they take to the catwalk.

The shows will kick off at Fox Covert RC Primary School, based in Clerwood Terrace, on Friday night.

Clothes are sponsored by Tesco, and the hair and make-up treatments will be donated by Mrs Ward herself.

The 35-year-old explained that she had come up with the idea following a PTA meeting at her own children's school.

She said: "People don't often get involved at school, so we wanted to come up with something that the pupils wanted to get involved in, that would be enjoyable for their parents too.

"The shows will add a bit of fun and glamour, and every penny raised goes back to the school. We're planning on charging 5 a ticket.

"The DianWard salon will donate all the make-up, hair styling and raffle prizes, although we're hoping more people will want to get involved down the line and donate some prizes."

Mrs Ward, who opened a cancer salon last year to help people undergoing chemotherapy treatment, said she aimed, with the help of her husband Barry, to cover all the schools across Edinburgh and the Lothians within a couple of years.

She said: "The aim is to raise around 1000 for every school.

"After Fox Covert we're going to schools in East Craigs and Clermiston. Tesco are providing all the clothes. We simply approached the company, and when they found out we were raising for all schools they were delighted to help."

Assistant head teacher Cath Francis said: "Dian Ward's daughter comes here and they were discussing what would be good to raise money. They decided on a fashion show, and 22 pupils in P1, P2 and P7 are going to be taking part.

"It's been very successful so far, everybody is very enthusiastic, and the kids are as high as kites.

"Hopefully it'll raise good money for the school."

The event on Friday night begins at 6.30pm and will end at 8.30pm with the handing out of goody bags.

Mrs Ward has three hair and beauty salons, one in the David Lloyd Spa, in Glasgow Road, one at Carrick Knowe and the other in Ashley Terrace.

Any school interested in hosting a show is encouraged to call the salon based at David Lloyd Spa.