A packed crowd enjoyed the accrobatics of the Peridot dancing group, who drew gasps and cheers from all those in attendance. All those there to witness this final show at the Whitgift Centre were amazed by the athleticism of the troop's performace, which featured body-popping and back-flips galore.

In a final demonstration of local fashion talent, Addington High School pupils then showcased their designs. It's clear that there are some really creative young people in the community, as Addington School children's designs followed the successful Croydon College show which took place earlier in the week.

Finally the weekend audience were treated to a live concert, including a performance by local lad, and X Factor finalist, Ashley McKenzie – whose debut album is due for release in the next few weeks.

It all rounded off a really positive week for the community, and one which proved a big hit with locals.

It was just the first in a new line up of festival's which are being introduced to the area by Croydon BID (Business Improvement District). But if the reaction which this event is anything to go by, Croydon Fashion Festival is here to stay.

Notes for editors

1.       A Business Improvement District (or BID for short) business-led initiative within a defined commercial area. Businesses in the area are invited to come together to decide how to improve the trading environment for themselves and their employees, customers and clients.

2.       Almost 70% of town centres businesses voted in favour of the Croydon Town Centre BID in February 2007.  The BID has been operating since 1^st April 2007 and will run for an initial term of five years.

3.       There are around 44 BIDs up and running around the country, 15 of these are in London. 

4.       The longest running BID is Kingston First, which is in its third year of operation.

5.       Businesses in the Heart of London BID (in the Leicester Square and Piccadilly Circus area of central London) have just voted to           renew the BID for a second term, proving that BIDs can make a real difference.

6.       The way the BID will operate is set out in the BID Proposal, available from www.croydonbid.com

7.       Croydon has approximately 1.7 million sq. ft. devoted to shopping and an annual turnover of £554 million

8.       Croydon is entering an exciting phase of its future development with the start date of Park Place, East Croydon's Gateway schemes and the extension of the East London line to west Croydon Station drawing ever nearer. Such large scale investments are set to transform the Town Centre by offering additional outlets, for retail, leisure and culture. If developed as planned the estimated turnover will increase to £1,300million