Black Country Community Gospel Choir co-founder Ivylue's festive TV surprise

Entrepreneur and charity fundraiser Ivylue Falconer, from Willenhall, thought she was merely a singing guest on BBC's The One Show when the choir was invited to perform on its special thank you episode for unsung heroes and heroines on December 19.

However, she was given a great big surprise when celebrity father and son guests Bradley and Barney Walsh presented her with a special One Big Thank You hamper for her tireless efforts in organising charity concerts for the homeless, after the team spotted her story in the Express & Star. 

The choir dressed in glittering silver and black outfits performed the 'Gladiator' theme song in honour of the series presenter Bradley Walsh and Wizard's 'I Wish it Could be Christmas Every Day before all was revealed when the presenters called out an unsuspecting Ivylue's name.

The foster mother, who has two daughters and a son Tiye of her own, says: "I was literally blown away by what happened to me on The One Show. It was the last thing I was expecting. I'm humbled and I'm still in shock to say the least." 

"I have to thank my amazing daughter Paige who had to keep the biggest secret and my friend Lynn Cottam. Both had been contacted by the One Show which researched me after the newspaper article for our concert last year and they wanted to get me on the show.

"I feel humbled as so may other people are giving, selfless and deserving too. My heart has always been to give back to the community, to those less fortunate and the homeless which is a cause close to my heart. I never do anything for recognition. It just feels great to bless others. I'm really touched."

In addition to running a business, she helps to organise the choir, as well as a team to provide meals, blankets and clothes for homeless. 

One Show presenter Alex Jones told the stunned businesswoman: "Ivylue it's so well deserved. We are thrilled that you are here and the surprise worked out so well."

 "Are you all right Ivylue?" 

To which Ivylue replied: "I'm fine. I'm speechless." 

Happily she recovered enough to join the group, which also included her husband Steve and youngest daughter Bethanie, in an acapella rendition of Leona Lewis's 'One More Sleep' to close the show.

Footage of the surprise moment has so far attracted almost 5,000 views on Facebook.

The choir has performed at events including Love Black Country Together Festival at Himley Park, community events and venues further afield. In December last year Ivylue  organised a full house concert at Willenhall's New Testament Church of God in Upper Lichfield Street to raise funds for those without somewhere to call home.

A repeat event was postponed last month due to illness. It will be held in the new year instead.

The One Show episode is available on BBC iPlayer