As birthday surprises go, a message from 4,000 miles away proved to be the icing on the 80th birthday cake for Mary Allison.
The octogenarian from Blyth in Northumberland was stunned when her daughter - who lives in Canada - shared via a live video link her plans for a very special treat to mark her milestone.
In a 'happy birthday' message, Louise Allison told her speechless mam that not only will she be flying back to the North East from Vancouver to see her but that she has bought tickets to her favourite show, Sunday for Sammy which is making a return to the Utilita Arena next week.
Mary's delighted reaction was recorded by other family members who had gathered to celebrate her big day.
She appeared overcome and initially lost for words when Louise revealed she would be making the 4,400 mile journey especially to take her to Sunday for Sammy, which is having a double performance on February 23 with a line-up of local celebrities whose identities are always kept under wraps.
Knowing how much her mother enjoys the fund-raiser show, Louise had bought tickets as soon as they went on sale last year and said: "My mum loves Sunday for Sammy and I couldn’t think of a better 80th birthday surprise for her.
"It’s been difficult to keep it a secret - especially the fact that I’m coming all the way back home to take her."
While the show likes to keep its line-up of stars a secret right up until the day, in order to surprise the audience, it was revealed in November that sketch alongside Tim Healy and Kevin Whately.
While both the afternoon and evening performance are now sold, there is set to be - like last year - a further release of a limited number of tickets once the staging for the event has been arranged.
Sunday for Sammy producer Ray Laidlaw said: "We’re in the final stages of production, finalising technical positions for the camera crew and special effects team.
"Once the plans are set, we should be able to release new seats on a first-come, first-served basis."
