OFFICE workers in the South are being encouraged to put away that smart suit or posh frock and dress in denim for a day.

On Friday, October 6, it is hoped the nation will get the blues in support of Jeans for Genes.

The campaign encourages people to wear jeans to work or school and do-nate £1 towards research into genetic diseases affecting children. One baby in every 30 born in the UK is affected by a genetic disorder or birth defect and there are over 4,000 recognised genetic diseases such as cystic fibrosis and "baby in the bubble" syndrome which are life-threatening yet there is no current treatment available.

Pop princess Billie Piper, pictured, is leading the way along with campaign patron Robbie Williams and a host of other famous faces including Geri Halliwell and Anthea Turner.

Billy Piper said: "I'm delighted to be able to lend my support to this campaign. Being young myself and coming from a big family with brothers and sisters, it's a cause I can relate to."

This year Jeans for Genes will benefit five national charities working together to raise money for research into genetic diseases and it is hoped, that with denim as this year's essential fashion item, that they will be able to top last year's fundraising total of £2.3 million.

If you've got no denims or need a new pair, shops such as Dorothy Perkins, Evans, Topshop and Warehouse are donating £1 to the cause if you buy jeans from them before October 6.

Chance to win a Jeanie Bear

You've heard of Beanie Bears - now there is the Jeanie Bear. We've teamed up with the Jeans for Genes campaign to give away two of these cute official campaign mascots worth £9.99 each and two campaign T-shirts at £11.99 each. For a chance of winning, just answer the following question: Name a female pop star who is lending her support to the Jeans for Genes campaign

Send your answer to Close Up/Jeans for Genes, Southern Daily Echo, Test Lane, Redbridge, Southampton, S016 9JX by next Thursday.

Jeans for Genes fundraising packs are available by calling freephone 0800 980 4800 and at the internet site www.jeansforgenes.com

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