SINGING sensation Rowetta, who made her name on the first series of X-Factor, will be returning to Tavistock for a special gig in July, four years after she made one little boy in the town very happy.

Children's charities supporter Rowetta made a surprise visit to Paul Lewis at his home in Parkwood Road in 2006, following an email from his father, Allen, telling her all about Paul's autism and treatment through the Son-Rise Programme of America.

The singer who is known for her soulful voice and exuburant personality, raised the profile of autism and Son-Rise when she sang in Paul's playroom and has remained in touch with the Lewis family ever since.

A former backing singer with the 90s band the Happy Mondays, Rowetta has more recently worked with the Black Eyed Peas and on dance tracks.

In July she will be at Tavistock Town Hall 'belting out the big tunes' for a 'Diva Night'. All the proceeds will go to Tavistock Community Football Club to maintain the new pitches and facilities.

She will be supported by power pop retro band Kitty and The Lost Boys from Tavistock, who are making a name for themselves in the South West, having featured as a Radio 1 houseband.

Rowetta said she was delighted to be coming back to the town: 'It was brilliant to come down and sing for Paul and when I saw him again in Manchester two years ago the improvement in his condition was amazing.

'When Allen said he would love me to come back and sing properly I was over the moon.'

Allen said Rowetta had helped a lot of people through raising awareness of autism and her work with the Caudwell Charity, which helps fund treatment, equipment and therapy for sick children.

'She is a great lady and it's going to be a fantastic gig because this lady really can sing,' he said.

Tickets for the event on July 31 are £20 and available from Tavistock Town Hall or Allen Lewis on 07749 798808.