Brides-to-be can now watch the pennies as well as the pounds by picking up a wedding dress at a charity shop in Oxford’s Cowley Road.

The Barnardo’s store is one of only a handful in the UK to feature a bridal outlet selling new bridal gowns and wedding party outfits donated by designers, specialist boutiques and suppliers.

Julie Jacobs, deputy manager at the shop, pictured modelling outfits with volunteer Shaun Mezzone, said: “I think with the credit crunch starting to hit people’s pockets, our range of brand new outfits at a snip of the cost will be an attractive option, but still give brides the wow factor that they want.

“Most charity stores sell pre-owned dresses but ours are all new.”

The bridal department is also selling occasional wear and men’s formal wear.

Ms Jacobs added: “Bridal departments in other stores around the UK have really taken off for Barnardo’s, and we’ve already had a lot of interest, so we’re optimistic that this range will prove popular.”