A FASHION show will honour the memory of a budding designer who died aged just 22.

Kerry Finn, of Jackson Avenue, Paddington, died in April after succumbing to liver and lung cancer – a disease she did not know she had until a week before her death.

The former Bruche Community Primary School and Woolston High School pupil fought bravely against the disease but died just before Easter, leaving parents Chris and Steve, sister Zoe and countless friends and family bereft.

They had a collection at the funeral, which raised £1,617.00, this was divided between two charities ClIC Sargent and Cancer research UK, both receiving £808.50 each. The family would like to thank everyone for this generous donation, and hope it will help others. They also thank everyone for the support they have received during this very sad time.

Now her close friend and former colleague Nicola Young, who owns the Knutsford shop Kerry worked at, has organised an event in her memory.

Nicola told the Guardian that she thinks Kerry would have appreciated the fashion show as she had worked at her ladies clothing boutique from last September.

Kerry, who had a degree in fashion and design from Manchester Metropolitan University, was also a keen pattern cutter and dress maker.

“She had everything going for her,” said Nicola, aged 37.

“Everyone in Knutsford knew her. She was a lovely girl and a good friend.”

Nicola and Kerry met at Mid Cheshire College in Northwich and the pair became close.

Then when Nicola opened the Naked Mannequin last June, Kerry jumped at the chance to work with her. However she soon became ill.

Nicola added: “She was poorly for months and months and kept going to the doctors but they didn’t know what was wrong with her.”

She was eventually diagnosed with cancer after her stomach was scanned, but she died a week later.

Nicola said: “Kerry rang me in hospital and said: ‘Sorry I’m letting you down’.

The show, which will take place at Casa Tapas in King Street, Knutsford, on November 11, will also be in aid of the children’s cancer charity CLIC Sargent.

Nicola and Kerry raised money for the cause together last year.

Tickets cost £12, which includes a cocktail, canapes, live entertainment and a luxury raffle.

Doors open at 7pm, and the fashion show is from 8pm to 9pm. Call Nicola for more details on 01565 633322.