IT was a dream come true for a lifelong Elvis devotee who was all shook up when her family whisked her away for a surprise birthday trip to the king's Graceland home.

Ann Hodges, of Myrtle Avenue, Mayfields, recently celebrated her 60th birthday but it was not at all how she expected.

Mrs Hodges was told by her daughter, Louise Davies, she was off to Spain for a holiday.

She packed her suitcase and they both drove to Heathrow Airport.

It was then that she saw the luggage labels - Heartbreak Hotel, Memphis, Tennessee, USA.

"I couldn't believe it. I've only ever been abroad once before to Spain, so when I saw where we were going I was so happy," said Mrs Hodges.

"It's been a dream of mine for years. I've been a fan of Elvis since Heartbreak Hotel came out but never thought I would be going to Graceland."

Mrs Hodges' hotel was opposite the gates to Graceland and even touching the gates had her in tears, she said.

She also met Elvis' tailor, Bernard Lansky, who made his clothes from the early years on.

It was a trip of a lifetime for the former sales representative who sadly lost her husband, Barry, last year.

"The trip was an amazing experience," added Mrs Hodges.

"And so many people knew about it, apart from me, I think my dog even knew."