A journalist told of how she went from local newspaper reporter to romantic comedy author as she entertained guests at a press Christmas party.

Suzan Holder spoke at the Birmingham Press Club Christmas lunch about her first reporting job on The Black Country Bugle after two weeks work experience with the Wolverhampton Express & Star.

She related her journey from being a reporter on a number of Midlands regional newspapers to becoming a television producer and then a rom-com author, publishing two books this year with a third in the pipeline.

Suzan, who is married to former Slade frontman Noddy Holder, was made an honorary life member of the club at the event, which was attended by almost 100 guests.

Suzan Holder with Birmingham Press Club president Bob Warman. Credit: Ian Tennant.

She also received the traditional gift of a bugle crafted in Birmingham’s jewellery quarter by Acme Whistles.

Held at Birrmingham’s Edgbaston Golf Club on Tuesday, guests also joined in a rendition of “Happy Birthday” to retired Birmingham Mail journalist Peter Swingler, who was celebrating his 88th birthday.

A raffle raised more than £770 for The Frontline Club, which aids journalists working in war zones and dangerous places.