IT'S not unusual to find someone who remembers the legendary Tom Jones.

The sensational pop idol is loved by millions around the globe and Citizen reader and local celeb' TJ Slater is arguably Tom's biggest fan since appearing as the great man himself on the television show Stars In Your Eyes.

Talented TJ stole the show and made it to the finals of the sing-a-like contest with his brilliant performance.

Now big-hearted TJ travels up and down the country impersonating the Welsh singer and raises loads of cash for the Baby Beat Appeal, which helps children in intensive care at Sharoe Green Hospital.

Tom's current visit to his 'green, green, grass of home' has sparked happy memories for TJ who recalls the time he was invited to meet his hero.

He said: "I was playing in Liverpool at the time and was invited to Lloyds Brasserie, in Manchester, to see him.

"I arrived at midnight and the place was heaving with big stars and some of the actors from Coronation Street. By the end of the night they all got his autograph and were asked to leave while Tom and I had a good long chat.

"He was great. He was just an ordinary bloke and doesn't look down on people like some big names might do.

"All night long he bought £125 bottles of champagne and by the end of the night we were laughing and joking.

"He even got up with me at the piano and we sang a few of his hits together - just for fun like.

"Hopefully I'll see him again while he's in the country this time. You never know, maybe we could sing a few tracks together again!"

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