SCORES of Basingstoke shoppers lapped up the chance to take in the latest trends as models strutted their stuff on the catwalk during Festival Place Fashion Week.

The week began in style at the landmark Festival Place shopping centre with a special VIP evening reception hosted by event sponsors USC and backed by Marks and Spencer.

From last Thursday, a series of catwalk shows took place and over the last few days, dedicated followers of the latest trends and other spectators have been able to enjoy a feast of fashion.

The stage in Porchester Square was the place to be if you wanted to see the latest lines available in certain Basingstoke stores as models showcased the newest ranges from the likes of H & M, Mango and Mamas and Papas.

Trendy USC provided additional styling clinics in between the fashion shows, while Supercuts gave hairstyling advice and free haircuts to members of the public who took to the stage.

Marie Kemshall, marketing assistant for Festival Place, said: "It was very successful. There was great interaction from all the customers in Festival Place, as well as from the staff in the shops.

"There are long-term benefits for all the shops involved because the event did a lot to raise awareness. It was definitely a good crowd-puller, and an all-round success."

A team from top London model agency FM helped pick The Face of Festival Place yesterday.

There'll be coverage of that event in The Gazette's sister free newspaper, The Basingstoke Extra, which is out on Wednesday.