A Highgate charity has launched an appeal for dresses that disadvantaged teenage girls can wear to their end of school prom.

The Alexandra Wylie Tower Foundation, launched after the death of Channing schoolgirl Allie Wylie from cancer in 2010, is asking for unwanted prom dresses so that teenagers who cannot afford to buy new clothes can still be the belles of the ball.

Actress Michelle Collins, a former star of ITV soap opera Coronation Street, joined Allie’s friends on Tuesday to launch the appeal wearing party dresses, including Allie’s favourite.

Allie’s mum Lindsay Wylie said: “Alexandra loved dressing up for occasions like this. We would be so grateful for the chance to make this a special night for local young girls.”

There will be drop-off points at schools across Camden. Email info@awtf.org for more information.