A STUDENT from Lymm has got designs on making it big in the fashion industry after securing sponsorship from a sportswear manufacturer.

23-year-old Tom Pearce from Brookfield Road won recognition from Howard Nicholson of Red Rox clothing after wowing him with his designs.

Tom, who is in his final year of a fashion degree at the University of Northumbria, impressed the industry so much that they agreed to help him out during London Fashion Week.

He was awarded £200 towards putting his collection together, and has also been invited to use the equipment in the Red Rox factory along with other young designers.

Tom, who has worked in London, Milan, New York and Cyprus during his degree, said: "I am working on my final collection of menswear. It is made up of very wearable clothes rather than avant garde.

"I am making clothes for my friends and family. At the end of their degree, most people's work ends up in the attic, but I want to give people something to wear once I have finished!"

Mr Nicholson said: "I originally thought of giving £500 to two students but when I saw the scope of the work I had to narrow it down.

"I was particularly impressed by the commercial awareness of Northumbria's students."

Tom will show off his work at graduate fashion week in London on June 5 and at the Playhouse, Newcastle, on June 12.

After completing his degree, he is hoping to go into fashion production or management.