Our fashion department teamed up with ex students and local businesses to supply vital equipment to support the NHS during the COVID-19 crisis.

The College’s Higher Education Fashion Course Leader, Lesley Whittle got involved with the Wigan Scrub Hub along with retired fashion tutor, Bernie Hitchin and fashion technical support staff, Wendy Liptrott.

The team collaborated with former staff and students, who work at local garment businesses to produce scrub suits, scrub hats and scrub bags to help protect our Wrightington, Wigan & Leigh NHS Trust (WWL NHS) staff.

The Wigan Scrub Hub is a public facebook group set up by former Wigan & Leigh College fashion student, Charlotte Mack with a GoFundMe page which asks for donations to buy the fabrics needed to make the scrubs.

So far they have raised over £6,900 with over 400 orders completed. They are on their way to reach an aim of 1,000 scrubs for the NHS frontline.

Lesley Whittle said: “I cannot explain the amazing feeling it is to witness ex students utilising skills initiated via myself and other college staff.

“I am truly proud of each and every one of them for their dedication and energy displayed. Their enthusiasm is wonderful to see.”

Local Wigan businesses, The Dressing Room and Creation - Prom Frocks each have former students of the College working with them. They have also joined forces to volunteer along with local seamstresses to hone their collective skills and experience for this brilliant and vital service