THIS week we delve into the archives to look back at an old fashion show.

This photo, taken in August 1961, shows a general view of the fashion show which was held at Burnley High School.

British woven fabrics and Paris-inspired designs were combined to present various collections of fashion in the provincial town.

Materials, colours and patterns destined for high success in the autumn and winter of 1961 were made by the designers.

The show, "Fashion by the Yard" inspired the 500 women who made up the audience in the hall of Burnley High School to go back home and try their skill at dressmaking.

And for those whose art was not in their fingertips, the show inspired a thought about the good sense of buying fashion materials and patterns featuring up-to-the-minute styles and having outfits individually made.

The fabrics were made by Jacqmar and Burnley girls from the local factory were behind the scenes helping to put on a slick show by professional models.

The patterns made by Vogue, many from original models by famous Paris and Rome fashion houses, and some of the outfits drew gasps of delight from the audience.

The firm put 857 new fabrics on the market in 1961. Proceeds from the show went to the Burnley Mayor's charity fund.