ARTISTS from an Atherton-based entertainments agency showcased their talents at an exclusive showbiz event this week.

Pennington's very own Matthew Kelly, and Cher's double from Atherton were among the singers, tribute acts and look-alikes who took part in Shout! Entertainment Agency's annual showcase at the Pack Horse Hotel, Bolton.

On the night, the agency's artists showed what they can do to professionals and companies from all over the country who might be interested in making bookings.

Managing director Steve James said: "It is a national event. These artists do a lot of work in London, Scotland and even Ireland."

Anthony Jenkins welcomed people at the doors dressed as his "twin" Matthew Kelly.

And Atherton woman Laura Stewart wowed the audience with her act "The Cher Experience".

Steve said: "She's one of the best in the country. Laura sounds uncannily like Cher. She's in big demand."

Other artists performed tributes to the Blues Brothers, Neil Diamond, Madonna, Steps, Phil Collins and Debby Harry.

Shout! Entertainment Agency, based in Telford Street, has hundreds of look-alikes and tribute acts on the books.

Steve said: "The four most commonly requested are Robbie Williams -- people can't get enough of him -- Tom Jones, Madonna and Tina Turner."

And Steve said his look-alikes are often asked to do some unusual tasks.

He said: "We were asked to send Marilyn Monroe to appear at Loch Ness to signify the opening of Loch Ness week. Everyone was searching for the monster.

"Basil Fawlty was hired at a Christmas party where he was in charge of waiters. He had to drop food on the floor and then order waiters to scoop it up and put it on plates."

And, he added, Ricky Tomlinson's double was once asked to go to Birmingham where all he had to do was sit on a coach for the whole day and have his photo taken with people.

Steve said: "It's not bad money if you can get it!" Tonight, Matthew ...

Pennington's Anthony Jenkins Turn back time ... Laura

Stewart, of Atherton, who looks and sounds the part of Cher