College pupils tested their retail skills at a shopping centre to raise money for the Philippines Typhoon Appeal.

Teenagers from Harrow College sold handmade goods at a Christmas craft fair at St Anns Shopping Centre yesterday.

The students sold gifts they have been making throughout the year including photographs and prints, lamps, bags, scarves, ceramics, Christmas decorations and arts and crafts.

Sue Wilson, head of health, arts and wellbeing at Harrow College, said: “The whole experience has increased the students’ confidence in the areas of selling and marketing.

“It’s been invaluable in teaching them how important aspects of retail and product development are to making your creative interests commercially viable.”

Jeff Jackson, centre manager at St Anns added: “We are delighted to welcome Harrow College’s staff and students into the centre to host their craft and gift fair.

“It offered the students great experience in retail, particularly with how busy the shopping centre is in the lead up to Christmas.

"It was a great platform to show case what they do not only to the public but to prospective students too.”

All the money raised from the day’s selling will go towards the helping people in the Philippines affected by Typhoon Haiyan.