Meet South Tyneside's best dressed - the residents getting glammed up during lockdown

Friends Carla Gray, Di Wilkinson, Kate Rae and Victoria Beattie have started a Friday night phenomenon as they encourage people to get dressed up to stay at home.

Their Frock it, it’s Friday page on Facebook, which now has over 800 likes, sees people of all ages - and genders - sharing photos of themselves in their most glamorous get ups every Friday in a bid to be crowned the top of the frocks.

The idea, which came about after Victoria took the bins out in one of her best gowns - before spending Easter Sunday in her wedding dress.

Now Kate, 37, has raised £500 for Childline after she completed a 5k while wearing her pink party frock.

“Our mission was just to lift spirits, to have fun and make people smile during a very challenging time, said Carla, 36.

“We’re all just lounging around in leisure wear and pajamas, having an excuse to get dressed up gives people something to look forward to.

“It’s a real feel-good thing to do and it’s great for boosting people’s mental health.”

Now residents across the borough are getting their glad rags on for a different theme every week - from household chores to throwing shapes on the dance floor.

Local fundraiser, Colin Bugin-Plews aka Big Pink Dress has even made an appearance with some of his best get-ups.

“We aimed it at women at first but we’ve had quite a few male entries. We’ve had mums and daughters and whole families, including the dog dressed up,” said Carla.

“It’s just gone crazy, we’ve had such positive messages back from people, it’s really bringing people together.

“Local businesses have donated prizes for the winning outfit each week.”

On Friday, May 8, everyone is encouraged to wear their best red, white and blue dresses to celebrate VE day in style.

Carla added: “Our current lifestyles have had so many comparisons to the war time effort, there’s a real community feel. We really want to celebrate VE day with a bang and with a frock on.”

Get involved at Frock it, it’s Friday

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