One El of a surprise!

Cheers . . . birthday boy Phil (left) with Ray and Sue Hicks, from the Three Crowns in Scouthead, who made the trip

Business consultant Phil Savage thought his 60th birthday was going to be a quiet affair with family and a handful of friends at a Spanish hotspot.

But when he arrived at the Mijas Playa restaurant at La Cala in southern Spain, Phil, from Dobcross, discovered his sister had secretly invited 60 of his pals along.

Elaine Butterworth (62) said: “I decided a year ago to do something really memorable for my brother because he is such a special person.

“I used a pre-tense to get him to give me his Christmas card list then contacted all his closest friends and invited them to the party — telling them they were sworn to secrecy.

“I got a fantastic response. Everyone entered into the spirit of the event and kept the party secret.

“Phil had absolutely no idea there was anything going on until he walked on to the roof terrace at the restaurant. His face was a picture!”

Phil, who is still recovering from the shock, said: “It was a wonderful, humbling experience.

“Elaine did a terrific job — I was completely in the dark!”