Sunderland woman left 'gobsmacked' at incredible Royal surprise to thank her for 30 years of charity work

A Sunderland woman was left ‘gobsmacked’ when she got the biggest surprise of her life - and it was all done to say thank you for 30 years of charity work.

Maureen Thompson has dedicated her life to raising money for worthy causes ever since her husband Allan died of leukaemia in 2000.

The couple also fundraised together in the years before then, but this time, it was Maureen who was on the receiving end of something beautiful.

Her daughter Laura Laverick and nephew Alan Maskell came up with a plan. Thanks to their efforts, and the support of some very generous people who helped, Maureen got to attend a Buckingham Palace garden party hosted by the Prince and Princess of Wales, William and Kate.

“They are my favourite Royals so it just topped everything off,” said Maureen who added: “I can't thank everyone enough for a memory that will last a lifetime.”

She said Laura and Alan ‘got in touch with the Mayor of Sunderland and asked could he do something to recognise the work I had done. He sent a request to the palace for an invite to the King's Garden Party. I thought it was a prank at first.”

But the surprises kept on coming. An overnight stay at the Rubens at the Palace Hotel in London and first class rail travel was also arranged.

Laura said: “It was a real privilege to spend such a special day as her guest, celebrating the incredible difference she has made and recognising just how special she truly is.”

Allan died aged 43, and Maureen previously told us "Up to the last year we had together, we tried to fundraise for children that were sick."

Allan was well known as the Ryhope CW Football Club manager and Maureen vowed to keep up the charity work in his memory.

She added last year: "I said I would do one fundraising event in Allan's memory. This is my 25th’.

Each year, Maureen has selected local children to support and then held a fundraising evening at The Alexandra in Grangetown.

She has raised thousands of pounds for children facing up to a whole range of health issues.