AN evil cartoon character has provided the inspiration for a Bolton business woman to be named as one of the partywear queens of the world.

For just months after branching out her balloon decoration design business to include fancy dress, Julie Barnes has won first prize in the retailers' costume competition at this year's International Party Show.

Julie, who has bagged a host of awards since establishing her balloon decorations business in 1995, has only been designing costumes since November 2001.

The award-winning dress drew inspiration from one of her most popular hire outfits, Cruella De Vil, the evil character from the 101 Dalmations story who was brought to life by Hollywood actress Glenn Close.

Julie entered it into the competition, which this year had a theme of film or theatre.

Julie recently moved her business into the former Jehovah's Witness Kingdom Hall on Moss Bank Way after running premises on Newbrook Road, Over Hulton.

She previously had success at the International Party Show when she was crowned balloon designer of the year in 2000 with a Hallowe'en centrepiece, consisting of balloon spiders and their webs.

Her major clients include Marks and Spencer, Jarvis Hotels and Vauxhall, although she also produces a lot of work for births, weddings, anniversaries, parties and even funerals.

The former Bolton College of Art student has appeared on several TV shows including the Generation Game. She said: "I'm over the moon at this victory because I've only been involved in fancy dress for five months.Coming first is always a thrill."