A HUNDRED friends turned out for a surprise birthday party on Sunday for long-time Malvern Theatres supporter Beryl Caudwell.

The party, organised by her sons John and Brian, was held, appropriately, at the Forum.

Mrs Caudwell was taken there by her sons, who had told their mother she was just going to have her picture taken. However, when she got there, she found family and friends from all over Britain gathered to celebrate her 80th birthday.

Music was provided by the Glen Miller Orchestra, and Mrs Caudwell's friend, well-known soprano Sue Black.

"I wasn't expecting anything like this but it really was a perfect evening," said Mrs Caudwell. Her son John said: "We planned it for three or four months without anybody spilling the beans."

Mrs Caudwell, who was born in Castlemorton, has been a stalwart supporter of the theatre, the ESO, Malvern Theatre Players and other performers since she returned to Malvern 19 years ago.

She said: "I love the theatre. It's almost my second home."