PENSIONER Ivy Hudson got the surprise of her life when there was a knock at the door - and in walked Daniel O'Donnell.

Ivy, 84, was set up for the visit by fellow O'Donnell fans Elsie Healey and her sister Maureen who also live at the Hyndbrook House sheltered accommodation flats in Dale Street, Accrington.

They had met the star Irish crooner on a recent trip to the Emerald Isle and he promised to visit Ivy when he was in Blackburn giving two sell-out concerts.

Ivy was speechless when he knocked on her door with two minders in tow.

"I could not take it in at first, then I shouted 'My goodness!'" said Ivy.

"It was wonderful - the biggest surprise of my life.

"I can't get to his concerts but I have all his recordings and videos.

"He asked me how I was and just made himself at home.

"He's the sort of man who makes you feel comfortable whoever you are."

Ivy's husband Ronald, 77, captured the whole thing with his video camera.

"Ivy was thrilled to bits," said Ronald. "He gave her a kiss, held her hand and chatted for a few minutes before going for a walk around the complex.

"He was a very nice chap and very pleasant to talk to.

"You won't get many famous singers who'll do something like that."

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