Pupils from schools across Derbyshire have been demonstrating their fashion design prowess.

Their efforts in making garments using only recycled materials earned praise from the managing director of Alfreton-based fashion house David Nieper.

The company held the competition Fashion for Free because it wants to inspire the next generation of fashion designers.

Christopher Nieper said: “It is essential for us to engage with children at an early age and enthuse them about fashion.

“This year we were truly stunned by the response to our competition and the incredibly high standard of entries.

“It shows just how much talent and creativity there is among our local young people, and we are delighted to be able to celebrate it.”

Nearly 100 entries were received and winners were chosen in four age-group categories.

They were: Junior wearable art, joint winners Crich Junior School and Wessington Primary School; It’s Party Time, years seven and eight, Chloe Massey and Megan Hodgkinson, Belper School; Dressed To Thrill, years nine and ten, Jessica Wesson, Landau Forte College, Derby; Making Mum Feel Special, year 11 and above, Simona Grintina, Alfreton Grange Arts College.

The judges’ overall design choice was by Jessica Wesson of Landau Forte College and the prizes were presented at the company’s Alfreton fashion house.