Bench held their International Conference this month, with 250 of our representatives around the world gathering for presentations, fashion shows, 3D Disco and a DJ set by Calvin Harris.

Held in the incredible Gorton Monastery, staff enjoyed food and drinks in Manchester’s magnificent architectural masterpiece. The Monastery sits alongside the Taj Mahal and the ancient ruins of Pompeii as having been listed in the 100 most endangered sites in the world, with a rich heritage.

With the altar and huge stained glass windows as the backdrop, catwalk fashion shows displayed the new Autumn/Winter 2010 range, as well as a sneak preview of the ground-breaking Spring/Summer 2011 collection. Street dancers also took to the catwalk, inspiring the heritage of Bench.

There was a running Art theme throughout the night, and a bus brandished with Graffiti art greeted guests upon arrival.

In the prestigious Monastery gardens spray-paint artists compiled a unique piece whilst staff looked on and there was also a Bench Art Gallery lining the walls inside, with photographs brandishing our history.

The highlight of the night was a DJ set by the famous Calvin Harris, who didn’t disappoint. Playing in a unique Bench DJ box, the Scotsman stole the show, playing his hits “I’m Not Alone” and “Ready for the Weekend”.

Guests were then given exclusive Bench branded 3D Glasses and treated to a 3D Disco, displaying some of the most exciting avenues into 3D technology.

It wasn’t all play however; Bench staff worked hard over two days to reveal the new AW10 Campaign, which is set to the brand’s best ever. 

All our photographs from the event can be found at www.bench-live.com