FASHION king George Davies has launched a fundraising appeal for Liverpool's Bluecoat arts centre.



The Crosby-born "saviour of M& S" agreed to become president of the 1717 Appeal, which aims to raise £700,000 to complete restoration and extension of the city centre building, one of the oldest arts centres in the world.

Mr Davies founded fashion chain Next in the 1980s and created the George at Asda label in the 90s. His Marks and Spencer collection, Per Una, was launched in 2001.

Yesterday, he toured Bluecoat Chambers where building work is well under way. He promised to help make it a venue for everyone in Merseyside to enjoy.

"It is very special for me to support the appeal.

"As the oldest and most beautiful building in the city centre, Bluecoat has always had a special place in the heart of Liverpool.

"But after nearly 300 years, it needed refreshing.

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