THEY say life begins at 40 — and Isle of Wight music fan Jacqueline Cook can probably attest to that.

She has set herself a challenge to watch 40 gigs this year, to celebrate her milestone birthday.

She is currently halfway through the challenge, having seen 20 gigs this year, with 18 more booked in and a couple more to sort.

Jacqueline, of Ryde, said: "At the beginning of my 40th year, I decided I wanted to do something to mark this milestone. Initially I put together a bucket list of things to do before I was 40, but I found it wasn't very achievable in the time and I was uninspired to continue.

"I've always been a fan of live music, and as I started to book my tickets for upcoming events, an idea struck me to attend 40 gigs in my 40th year.

"I started my quest with a gig at Strings Bar and Venue in Newport with a Smiths tribute act, and I have so far travelled as far afield as London and Brighton seeing acts as diverse as Ned's Atomic Dustbin, The Wonderstuff, Paul Simon, Electric Six, Prince Fatty and Danny Baker.

"I have certain stipulations to this challenge. Although the events and gigs that count towards my total don’t necessarily have to be ticketed, they do need to be at a venue or concert hall, rather than a pub, and they don't necessarily have to be musical.

"If I attend multiple gigs on one tour each of these counts as a different gig and for festivals, each day counts as one gig."

Jacqueline has had to take on extra bar work to afford the tickets and travel, but she believes it has been more than worth it.

She said: "The Island has such a diverse music scene, and it is good to support these local venues and ensure that they can keep on putting on live music for our enjoyment.

"Venues such as Strings, and The Engine Rooms in Southampton, have been instrumental in getting me as far as I have in this challenge.

"I must mention my long-suffering husband Jason, as without his assistance, tolerance, and patience, this whole challenge wouldn't be possible. He is also a great gig buddy when he is able to join me!"