Debenhams has become the first British high street retailer to break the taboo of using disabled models in campaign photography.

Shannon Murray, 32, who has been confined to a wheelchair, since breaking her neck as a teenager, will appear in the store's display window photography and online.

The move follows an approach to Debenhams by Nikki Fox and Natasha Wood, both disability campaigners and presenters of the hit TV show, How to Look Good Naked, with a Difference.

Shannon will join three other models, Kate Fullman, a size 16 model, Tess Montgomery, a petite 5''4 model, and Tokumbo Daniel, a size 10 model who will all appear in photographs to promote the recently-launched 'Principles by Ben de Lisi' range which prides itself on its inclusivity. The collection starts at size 8 and goes up to size 20, with a specific petites range as well.

Debenhams is showing an increasing willingness to inject variety into the people modelling its clothes. The new campaign follows hot on the heels of the retail chain using size 16 mannequins in its windows.

Michael Sharp, Debenhams’ Deputy Chief Executive, said: “We cater for women of all shapes and sizes, young and old, non-disabled and disabled, so we wanted our windows to reflect this choice.

“When Nikki and Natasha approached us with the idea, we didn’t have to think twice. We are proud to be the first high street retailer to deliver this. We only wished we had done it sooner”, he said.

Nikki Fox praised the store for using Shannon in its campaign: “I am so happy and proud that Debenhams has used our disabled model for such a massive campaign. It’s a really big deal. If seeing Shannon helps another disabled person, then we’ve done well.”

“Every woman deserves to look good and feel special - which is why there are styles to suit, fit and flatter every body shape in the new Principles range. I think that Shannon looks amazing,” added the designer, Ben de Lisi.

Shannon Murray complemented the retailer for supporting disabled models: “I think this is a fabulous step forward and I’m proud to be part of such a big move towards positive representation of disability in high street fashion.”

Debenhams says that it is committed to using disabled models in other photography; a second photographic shoot is being organised.

The images will be used in Debenhams stores in Glasgow, Guildford, Oxford Street, London, W1, and Nottingham, with the intention of rolling out across all stores in the chain.