July 23, 2001/ FWD/ --- Critics may be accusing Marks & Spencer of heading for both fashion and financial disaster, but all credit to them for deciding to continue with their sponsorship of London Fashion Week's New Generation scheme.

This year a total of 17 young designers have been chosen to receive financial support towards the cost of their participation in the Spring/Summer 2001 collections at London Fashion Week in September. Five designers get the cash to mount a full-fledged catwalk show; the rest qualify for automatic inclusion in the accompanying designer's exhibition.

The catwalk winners include current stylists' darling Sophia Kokosalaki, who was recently tipped to replace Narciso Rodriguez at Loewe, after her very successful stint at Ruffo Research. The other designers are Russell Sage, who made headlines when he showed his mother's crumbling wedding dress as part of his collection last season, Hamish Morrow, and Blaak. The fifth designer is Warren Noronha, who used to work for Antonio Berardi, and whose off-schedule show was well received last season.

"The designers awarded sponsorship this season are some of the UK's most exciting, original and up-and-coming talent, demonstrating a high standard of design, innovative cut and style, all which contribute towards London's reputation for individuality and creativity," said Anne Tyrrell Vice Chairman of the British Fashion Council.

The 12 designers selected for the exhibition are a mix of established names and new labels. Julian Roberts, Arkadius, and Marcus Constable all showed as part of the official schedule last season, but are eschewing the catwalk this time round. They are joined by Adam Entwhistle, Mootich, Lizzy Disney, Louis de Gama, Sophie Williams, Michelle Lowe Holder, Jemima Rogers and Alice Lee.

London Fashion Week, supported by Vidal Sassoon, runs from September 17 to 23.