A Norwich hotel is set to become a swap shop for one night only as part of an unusual bid to help victims of domestic violence across the city and beyond.

Leeway Domestic Violence and Abuse Services will be holding the charity fashion swap event at the Holiday Inn Norwich North Hotel, near Norwich International Airport, at the end of next month.

The city-based charity, which supports adults and children who are experiencing domestic violence, is urging anyone who wants to get rid of some old clothes to attend the event rather than throwing them out to help raise vital funds.

Rachel Buck, marketing and sustainability officer for the charity which was set up in 1974, said: 'The idea of the event is that people bring unwanted clothes with them and then swap them for other items.

'This is also known as 'Swishing' and the concept has become really popular across the UK. As far as I'm aware, this is the first Swishing/Fashion Swapping event held on a large scale for charity in Norwich.

'The best thing about this event is that it's an economical, environmentally friendly way for women to dispose of unwanted clothing in exchange for new items and, of course, the ticket fee goes towards helping a local charity.'

Heart Radio presenter Chrissie Jackson, who is also a patron of the charity, will be making an appearance at the event which takes place on Sunday, October 30.

Leeway, a founding member of WAFE (Women's Aid Federation England), was set up by a group of women who recognised that there was a need for a refuge in Norwich. It became the third known to open in the country.

During the 1980s and 1990s, the service expanded and developed to meet the needs of the women and children, with the establishment of the After School Club and a Resettlement service.

In 1990, a management committee was established, to steer Leeway and they have the responsibility for the strategic management and direction of the organisation.

Leeway has a staffing team of approximately 40 employees and additional volunteers who are responsible for the delivery of Leeway's services.

If you need help from Leeway, call them on 0845 2412171.

The Evening News's Don't Suffer in Silence campaign aims to highlight the problems of domestic abuse and has been highlighting the issues, the help available and also the court cases which can result.

Have you got a crime story? Call reporter Peter Walsh on 01603 772436 or email peter.walsh@archant.co.uk