O'Connor's Model Sanctuary to Close

Catwalk queen Erin O'Connor has been forced to close her respite centre for vulnerable models after losing its headquarters in London.

The British supermodel launched the Model Sanctuary in 2008 to help young beauties with "discrete health guidance and educational support".

The original centre, which was based in Covent Garden and offered expert advice from nutritionists, psychologists and fitness instructors, was rented out on a long-term lease and last month (Jan12) O'Connor called forhelp to find new premises in time for the upcoming London Fashion Week.

However, her appeal was unsuccessful and she will be closing the centre.

She tells Vogue.co.uk, "For reasons beyond my control, The Model Sanctuary will not be operating during the forthcoming London Fashion Week February 2012. "This is due to a combination of last minute changes to contributions from sponsors and, despite an incredible response from a number of loyal and enthusiastic supporters, we have been unable to find an alternative venue after our home of the last few seasons became subject to a long-term lease.

As these issues have come to light in the last few weeks I am leftwith no time to rectify the situation.

"As I look forward, I have come to the conclusion that for The Model Sanctuary to continue successfully, the project requires and in fact deserves, the certainty of established premises for the period of each London Fashion Week... I urge the fashion industry, its partners and key stakeholders to help us secure a permanent home during London Fashion Week, so that we can continue our valuable work".