A SIDMOUTH woman s quest for a memorable 40th birthday bash turned into a charity ball bonanza last Friday.

A SIDMOUTH woman's quest for a memorable 40th birthday bash turned into a charity ball bonanza last Friday.

Shelley Newton, 40, of Peaslands Road has raised �460 and counting for the NSPCC after plans to mark her special day "snowballed" into full-scale 'Vintage Ball' held in the town's Knowle council chamber.

Revellers dressed in 1920s to 1950s garb enjoyed an evening of live music and cocktails and Shelley has labelled it "the best birthday ever".

Shelley, who sings in the Sidmouth Gospel Choir, even overcame her "microphone phobia" to take the stage and treat guests to a solo performance.

She said: "It's funny, I had two Cosmopolitans (cocktails) and I didn't have any nerves at all.

"We're still raking in the money. It was just a fantastic night. I loved it.It was such a success I want to do it all again next year."

The Sidmouth Gospel Choir and band Good Question both waived their fees to perform at the bash.