SEVENTIES pop legend Alvin Stardust is hoping this weekend’s Elvis spectacular in Walton will provide a real tonic for the troops.

The Return To Splendour – Elvis Weekender is celebrating what would have been the King of Rock and Roll’s 75th birthday, and raising cash for the Help For Heroes appeal.

Alvin was thrilled to be invited to make a special guest appearance with his new band.

“It’s a cause which is close to my heart,” he told the Gazette.

Alvin has childhood memories of happy holidays on the Essex coast.

“We used to go on our holidays around Clacton every summer,” he said.

“My nan had a beach hut and we’d take picnics and a Primus stove down there.

“The kids would play on the beach and the grown-ups would sit around with pints of beer and laugh and talk.”

He’s looking forward to Saturday’s show at Martello Caravan Park.

The weekend also features top Elvis acts, the great man’s personal hairdresser and the Las Vegas Showgirls.

The Elvis weekender runs from Friday to Saturday. Tickets start at £18.50 (under-12s go free) from the box office on 01255 427687.

FOR FULL INTERVIEW WITH ALVIN, SEE FRIDAY'S GAZETTE