A lucky DJ mixed with the rich and famous when he was invited to spice up a celebrity party.

Shail Patel, 23, played a six-hour set at the home of former Spice Girl Melanie B, for her 28th birthday bash.

Mr Patel, also known as DJ Shameless, secured the dream gig thanks to his friend Wayne Williams, a former member of pop group Another Level.

He was invited into Melanie's luxury home in Marlow, Buckinghamshire, where he dined with her celebrity friends before playing into the early hours.

Mr Patel, of Caburn Court, Crawley, said: "Wayne mentioned to Mel that I was a good DJ and about a week ago she said she'd let me play at the party. It was a dream come true.

"When I arrived at the house I was pretty terrified. I couldn't eat much of the food before my set because I was so nervous about performing.

"The house was gorgeous and Mel was very warm and friendly, which put me at ease.

"My set went down really well with the crowds and afterwards Melanie thanked me for all I'd done. It was a brilliant night."

Mr Patel specialises in playing hip hop, r'n'b, house and garage.

He said: "I have to admit I was never really a fan of the Spice Girls. But I don't think Mel was either because she likes the sort of music I play."

Mr Patel, who has played at Creation and the Honey Club in Brighton, said there were none of the celebrity antics you would expect from an exclusive party.

He said: "I was looking out for gossip but there was none to be had. Everyone was very well behaved."

Mr Patel struck up such a friendship with Melanie she has invited him and his family back for a thank-you meal.

The encounter may also yield more star-studded gigs for Mr Patel.

He said: "I can't reveal too much at this stage but there are certainly more celebrity bookings planned for the future."