FRIENDS and family of a mum-of-three with terminal cancer, gathered in Oswestry on Monday afternoon to surprise her with a cheque for more than £6,000.

The friends and family of 35-year-old Laura Pugh from St Martins, organised a secret get-together at the Black Gate pub in Salop Road to present her with the huge cheque for £6,700 – raised at various fundraising events to help send Laura, her partner and children on their dream holiday to America.

Laura was none the wiser of the exchange and thought she was going to meet with her friends for a drink.

"I thought I was meeting with Charlotte and Adi for a drink and then going for a meal with Charlotte," she said.

"I was like why's my uncle here? Then people started arriving and I still didn't know.

"It's nice to see everyone in more of a relaxed atmosphere, I was too ill at the music night and had to go home early."

The idea for the get-together and cheque presentation came from Laura's friend Charlotte James who has been a key part in the fundraising for Laura's holiday fund so far.

She said: "I asked Laura to come for a drink, she didn't know that everyone would be here.

"I just thought it was nicer to get everybody together rather than just stick the money in her bank."

Laura was overwhelmed with seeing the amount on the cheque and thanked everyone for helping to raise money to send her and her family on their dream trip.

"It's such a shock. It's absolutely amazing," Laura said.

"I can't thank everyone enough for everything they've done and for all their hard work and generosity.

"And for people who given up their own time and support, or just kind words.

"Unfortunately I've had to postpone booking a holiday right now because I'm not able to get insurance for America while I'm currently undergoing treatment.

"I'm really excited to book it now though.

"We want to drive some of Route 66 and see the Grand Canyon, maybe hire a SUV or minivan and go to Universal Studios for the day.

"There's just not enough words I could say to tell people thank you. I'm forever grateful."

Laura's mum, Michele Pugh, added: "I'd just like to say thank you too, along with Laura's brother Scott, for everyone's generosity. It means so much."

Charlotte has been joined in her fundraising efforts by Adi Evans, who organised the last successful event in July.

Adi was delighted with the turnout at Laura's Music Night and now has plans for the future to host more fundraising nights.

He said: "Massive thanks to Sam and Sophie at the Black Gate who let us have the whole building for nothing and for selling raffle tickets.

"A big thank you to everyone else who has been involved too.

"My aim is to carry on with other events for Laura but also to help other families going through similar situations.

"I want to help create lasting memories for the children.

"Hopefully there are venues who would donate their space, local musicians who could donate their time and businesses that could donate raffle prizes."

If you think you can help, please contact Adi on adievans@live.co.uk