Orchestra opens first store in Ireland

The Irish Master franchise rights for French children's clothing company Orchestra have been purchased by husband-and-wife team Trevor and Maeve Cooke. Trevor and Maeve launched their first store in Waterford and have announced that their children's charity of choice for this year is Barnados.

Maeve said: 'We are delighted to have won the franchise for all of Ireland. We have two children of our own and are passionate about providing good quality clothing at affordable prices the Orchestra brand really suits our ethos.'

Trevor explains how the couple will raise money for Barnados: 'We will have a collection point at the checkout and we will encourage all of our customers to donate what they can. As well as this, any charitable events that Orchestra commits to throughout the year will donate funds to Barnardos. 'We have not set a target for our fundraising, but we hope to be able to raise a good amount for this very worthy cause.'

Established in 1995 by Chantal and Pierre Mestre, Orchestra was developed to provide parents of children under the age of 14 with a one-stop shop for affordable, quality fashionable clothes. The clothing line proved a success and is on sale in 480 stores worldwide.