Alsager mum and grandmother, Mary Holford, had no idea where she was heading when she agreed to accompany her daughter to an 'interview' in London.

The selfless 70-year-old, who has given hours of her time to various organisations and charities in the town, thought she was just going to give support to her daughter Debbie Stonier.

But little did she know that the real reason she was picked up in a chauffeur-drive car was to meet celebrity Michael Ball and appear on 'The One Show'.

Each week, the national programme highlights people who have given their time and energy to their local community.

Mary hugged Michael Ball after meeting him on the 'One Show'. (Photo: Nub News)

And last week, it was Mary Holford's turn to be thanked for her work with Alsager Luncheon Club, Alsager Swans, where she is treasurer, and Alsager and District Food bank, to name a few.

For big-hearted Mary, a mum of three and grandmother to four, gives her time freely every week to various groups in the town.

"I've always loved Michael Ball and watch him a lot on TV but I never thought I'd end up meeting him," said Mary who lives in Moorhouse Avenue.

"My daughter, a teacher, had told me I was going to help her with an interview for her work.

"I hadn't got a clue what was happening. I just kept calm and did as I asked, thinking it was to help Debbie.

"I was so shocked when I realised the person underneath the costume was Michael Ball. I just hugged him. He's such a lovely guy just as you'd imagine him to be."

Mary was an assistant at Alsager post office for 15 years but now volunteers for various groups and organisations in the town, including Alsager Swans with whom she also swims with.

Mary and her husband John who is a big supporter of her volunteering. (Photo: Nub News)

"I just love people and being able to do things for them. When I worked at Alsager Community Support I loved helping the public."

And Mary has no plans to give up volunteering and just like her husband, John, will carry on working and volunteering for as long as possible.

She never stops 'giving' to others. She also often finds her culinary skills called on, such as recently when she was making two dozen scones for Alsager Community Church to use. 

"All the family came round and watched the One Show when it was broadcast. It was quite funny watching myself on TV.

"I'm just so grateful to the show and my daughter for organising this. I will remember meeting Michael Ball for the rest of my life."

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