Westbury pensioner Les Alley thought he was celebrating his 80th birthday with a quiet evening down at the pub, but his family had other ideas by hosting a party to raise money for his favourite charity.

Mr Alley, of West End, arrived at The Hollies in Westbury Leigh to find a 100-strong crowd had gathered to mark his big day, including people he had not seen for over 20 years.

Mr Alley's family had kept the event secret from him and told guests not to bring any gifts.

His daughter Irene Smith said: "Because we knew he is not one for presents, we decided to have donations for the Wiltshire Air Amb-ulance and they were collected on the night."

Donations to the charity totalled £320 as Mr Alley's friends and family filled the pub and entertainer Martin Smith ensured everyone left in high spirits.

Mr Alley's wife Eileen, 78, said: "When we got over there it was full of people we knew years ago when we kept the Royal Oak in Hawkeridge."

Mr Alley said: "It was wonderful, really wonderful. We want to thank everyone for turning up.

"At this age you don't want a lot of presents really. It's far better to give it to someone who needs it.

"I think they Wilt-shire Air Ambulance really need the money because they save lives. It's the best charity around here, it's a very good cause."