LAUNCESTON lady Alison Gerry celebrated her 40th birthday last year and instead of receiving presents she held a party and asked for donations to some very worthwhile causes.

One of those causes was Children's Hospice South West (CHSW), where the team were delighted when Ali visited Little Harbour before Christmas to make her donation of £507.50 to the children's charity which supports life limited children and their families.

In total Ali collected £1,507.50 of donations which was split between Children's Hospice South West, the Pancreatic Ward at Derriford Hospital and Birch Ward.

Ali extended her thanks to everyone who donated to her birthday bash: "I was absolutely delighted with the total amount of money raised and these donations are going to charities very close to my heart.

"Thank you to everyone who came along to my party and all the businesses who also helped out with donations and raffle prizes. I wanted to mark my 40th with something special and by handing over these donations to these causes I definitely feel I have done that now."

For the full report, and a round-up of the area news and sport, see this week's edition of the Post.