AT 67 years old, most would expect Sandra Scott to be retired, not hosting four parties a week at homes across the region.

But the grandmother has no plans to give up working for PartyLite any time soon. Instead, she hopes to be selling candles and accessories well into her 80s.

"I find my work keeps me fresh and, because it is so social, I find it very stimulating. I'm convinced my career is the secret to keeping me so young," she said.

Mrs Scott, from Newton Hall, near Durham City, had worked as a consultant selling tupperware for 31 years before deciding to take a break in 1994.

Two years later, she joined another party plan organisation, PartyLite, which was already established in the US and in the process of setting up in the UK.

Mrs Scott launched the business in the North-East and Scotland and is the longest-serving consultant in the company. Last year, at PartyLite's annual conference, she was recognised as one of the top ten leaders in the country.

"You are your own boss and so you can work at whatever pace you wish. I work on average four nights a week and will continue to do so for as long as I am able," she said.

But the job hasn't come without its challenges.

"As well as the prejudice of age, I've also had to work against a prevailing belief that a career in party planning is somehow frivolous and lightweight," she said.

Anyone interested in joining PartyLite can contact Mrs Scott on 0191-386 7716.