I'd met Lynn and Sue at Kirsty’s party last week and they'd invited me along to this weeks gig. Why the hell not, I thought. And I was so glad I went, I had a totally brilliant time and everyone made me feel really welcome.

From Mandie and Mark and the guys in the band, to the eclectic crowd, they where all totally cool and couldn’t have been nicer. I must particularly thank Lynn for putting me at my ease when I first arrived and introducing me to everyone. And my T friend Lorraine for actually being there before me, even though she'd told me she doubted she'd be going!

The gig itself was brilliant, like many I was captivated by Mandies Burlesque inspired routines. She makes it look so effortless, but you try even a simple pose and you'll soon appreciate the skill involved! And the party afterwards never seemed to stop.

A top night, and a significant new step for me, going to a mainstream(ish) venue on my own. But best of all, I made some great new friends. You can see some snaps from the night here.