A MUM who set up a charity to help disabled children and their families was treated to a surprise party in recognition of her work.

Paula Jones was given the pleasant shock when she won a Pop Up Party attended by the mayor and mayoress who presented her with a trophy.

She launched 'Friends - play for disabled children' in October 2012 with the aim of bringing affected families together through events, trips, days out and to provide a support network for those families to help prevent isolation.

The organisation works through a Facebook page which organises different events at various locations.

Paula, from Haydock, was just one of five winners across the country.

"I feel really great about being thrown a party today and really honoured to be nominated, the surprise was completely unexpected and I'm so grateful to win, I'm really quite speechless to be honest," said Paula.

"It's nice to know that what we set up actually matters and means something to people, and it all feels just brilliant to celebrate the work we do."

Mayor Cllr David Banks said at the presentation: "I'm thrilled to present this award to a very deserving person. I'd like to congratulate Paula on winning this award, not only have you brought up your own family and held down a full time job you've set up and run 'Friends Play for Disabled Children', supporting more than 400 families.

"St. Helens, like most towns, need people just like you."

Friend, Michelle Hughes added; “I nominated Paula because she does a lot for the community, and the children and parents she supports and I just wanted to do something for her and show her how very special she is to us."