THE thing about Elvis is that almost everyone thinks that they can do a reasonable impression of him - most of these people are wrong!

From a throwaway 'Uh Huh' to a quick 'Elvis Has Left The Building', you hear it all the time. Despite the sad fact that the man himself left us over forty years ago, he is as popular as ever and probably the most impersonated figure of all time.

Despite that I was still surprised at just how many people had made the trip to Bournemouth Pavilion to see Ben Portsmouth Elvis. The place was nearly sold out and people had obviously come to have a good time.

Of course Ben is no run of the mill, play down the pub to twenty people kind of Elvis. He is the only non-American to win the World's Ultimate Elvis Tribute Act, in Memphis no less, and has appeared on the Letterman show and toured the world over. On stage for tonight’s show he was joined by a trio of backing singers, a full band and a horn section.

The evening started slightly late due to some technical problems, but the show was soon under way and the place was rocking as Ben worked his way through the life and career of The King.

We had Young Elvis, Denim Elvis, GI Elvis, Leather Clad Vegas Elvis and, of course, White Jump Suit Elvis. The hits kept on coming with people dancing in the aisles and rushing to the front to be draped in one of the many scarfs that were handed out (they must have a separate lorry just to carry a tour's worth around with them).

With so many classic songs to choose from Ben can hardly fail to please the crowd and leave them wanting more. Excellent versions of Suspicious Minds, Kentucky Rain, In The Ghetto, American Trilogy, Wooden Heart and My Way. His interaction with the crowd was good with dedications and an invitation to a lucky lady to come on stage to shake his maracas.

With shows like this still pulling in the crowds, it's safe to say that the name and music of The King will be performed to crowds all over the world for many years to come, and that’s just how it should be. I will be going to Portsmouth to catch Mr Portsmouth in May and am looking forward to a great night already.