WEST end star Gerard Carey wowed at a fundraising concert celebrating the Argus’ 125th birthday.

Mr Carey, who is currently starring in the West End in the Cameron Mackintosh production of Half a Sixpence, appeared at the event at Newport’s Coldra Court Hotel held as part of the Argus’ 125 Appeal, which is raising money for St David’s Hospice.

Welcoming guests to the glittering event, Argus managing director Hussain Bayoomi, said: “We have got lots to celebrate and lots to look forward to.

“125 years ago we had the loudest bang in history, Liverpool Football Club was founded, Nintendo was launched with the modest goal of selling novelty cards and the Argus printed its first edition, which is pretty incredible.”

Also speaking at the start of the event, chief executive of the hospice Emma Saysell, said: "We were completely blow away that the Argus were supporting us in this way.

“The Argus over the years has always supported us but this is something really special and we are really grateful.”

She added: “By coming here today you are all helping thousands and thousands of patients and their families.”

As well as a three-course lunch, guests enjoyed a host of show tunes performed by Mr Carey, who recently played the villainous Lord Farquaad in the award-winning Shrek musical.

Speaking as he took the stage, Mr Carey said: "We are here for two reasons, for the Argus and the great work St David’s Hospice do.

“But also we are here to show you a great time.”

The actor has appeared in the BBC series Torchwood and Love Soup. Music is in his blood with his parents appearing in variety shows in Wales.

All money raised from the event will help with running costs for the hospice which cares for more than 3,200 patients and families every year, at a cost of more than £7.5 million.

Mr Carey’s own mother died of cancer in 2008 and she received end of life care from a hospice, and so the 125 Appeal is a cause that is close to his heart.

The evening is organised in conjunction with Applause Productions, a company that creates entertainment specifically for each event.