Manchester Fashion Institute partner with Paralympic hero

Following the launch of Dame Sarah Storey’s new Elite Racing Team, Storey Racing, this weekend, the University is pleased to be working with the Paralympian in a new and exciting way.

Manchester Fashion Institute students from the final year BA (Hons) Fashion Buying and Merchandising plus Jessica Crampton – a National Championship gold medalist in track cycling on the Fashion Design and Technology degree, are producing a range of leisurewear for the athlete that complements Sarah’s technical race clothing.

Maria Malone, Principal Lecturer in Fashion Business at the Manchester Fashion Institute, said: “The project was conceived during a conversation between myself and Sarah, as a live project for students - and so that Sarah has the chance to have a commercial arm to the team.

“Sarah has met with students to brief them and discuss the range, and has also given a motivational talk to the final year Fashion Buying and Merchandising group as a whole.

“This is such an incredible opportunity for our students. Those involved with the project were also invited to the press launch of the team and they had a great time. The students, and the Manchester Fashion Institute, are incredibly grateful for this opportunity.”

Manchester Metropolitan University already have a long history of working with Dame Sarah Storey. As existing sponsors, Sarah is supported financially and technically through training delivered by the University’s Exercise and Sport Science Department. Sarah is also an honorary graduate of the University.

As a result of the project, the Manchester Fashion Institute will become official partners of Dame Sarah Storey, alongside the University, and their logo will feature on the Storey Racing support vehicles and team kit.

The leisurewear designed by the students will be revealed later this year.