AN Alderley Edge wedding specialist is beating the credit crunch by offering a ‘budget brides’ service during April.

Bridal gowns are being offered at knock down prices to create space on the rails for the next couture collection due in.

And, according to shop boss Maggie Chadwick, worried girls thinking they will have to ditch the dream dress for their big day can dry their tears.

She is offering a bargain basement bonanza at The Wedding Shop on London Road.

She said: "It’s a one off really. The recession is taking its toll in the bridal business as well as elsewhere and I feel sorry for brides who are feeling the pinch.

"Just last week a bride to be came in the shop and was almost in tears because of the effect the credit crunch is having on her wedding plans.

"She bagged a fabulous red silk Hollywood Dreams dress for less than half price, perfect for her Christmas wedding.

"We have had brides who have lost their jobs and in one case they both lost their jobs within a month of each other and have had their house repossessed, they then had to cancel their wedding.

"We have had quite a few in tears as brides tell us they are having to cut back on things. The dream dress is a must but in our sale the dream dress could become a reality."

Maggie added: "Sometimes they are embarrassed to tell us they are on a tight budget, but why not?

"We are all suffering from the downturn in the economy and like to make savings where we can, there is no shame in that."

The clearout sale will be held from Saturday, April 18, to Thursday, April 23.