Hampshire pupils shall go to the ball thanks to Mousetrap Dress Boutique

Bridal and prom wear providers, Mousetrap, in North Street, Havant, has teamed up with events organiser Best Parties Ever to host prom nights for more than 1,000 teenagers.

The Rio Carnival themed proms will include a three-course meal, entertainment, circus performers and even a dodgem ride.

Staff at the popular shop decided to organise their own prom after seeing how disappointed pupils were at missing out.

Many families ‘had already shelled out hundreds of pounds for dresses and evening wear,’ shop staff said.

Bridal consultant Willow Corbin said: ‘We’ve seen both kids and parents in tears. It’s absolutely massive to celebrate the end of school and these kids have had this taken away.

‘School was suddenly cut short and students didn’t get the chance to sit their exams or do all the things associated with finishing school.

‘Schools seem to have taken the line that proms aren’t going to happen and so we wanted to do something to try and fill this void later in the year when it’s hopefully safe to do so.’

The prom has been opened up to all current Year 11 students in Hampshire and Sussex.

Hosted by the Trojans Club in Eastleigh and with a capacity of 750 people in the giant venue, the initial prom will take place on December 14 with an additional night available on December 7 if demand requires.

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With restrictions still in place on large gatherings, organisers have assured teenagers that a contingency plan is in place if restrictions remain.

Willow added: ‘If social distancing is still here then the company have said we can split the prom over two nights at half the capacity.

‘There is also scope to indefinitely postpone the event until it’s safe to host.

‘Around 60 per cent of girls have already bought their dresses and young people have already paid for things like transport. This is a non-profit event and we just want to give them a night to remember.’

Tickets costing £50 can be purchased from the Mousetrap Dress Boutique.

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