OLLY Murs is a thoroughly modern, old school trouper.

An all too rare and precious thing, Murs is one of a tiny number of artistes whose appeal spans the generations from primary school kids enjoying their first Arena experience through to their great grandparents.

Oh the power of prime-time Saturday night television, which although hardly rock'n'roll has welcomed Murs into the hearts of millions of households.

The extremely likeable Olly charmed his loyal fans on Monday with a crowd-pleasing selection from his four hit albums.

Kicking off with a cool Sixties-influenced Did You Miss Me, Murs evoked the appeal of Tom Jones in Las Vegas before swiftly moving on to Right Time Right Place.

The well-chosen set included a medley of ballads around and on top of a white piano, a funky Seventies' montage and, naturally, all those great party hits: Heart Skips A Beat, Dance With Me Tonight, Trouble Maker, Up and Wrapped Up. But perhaps a poignant reading of Dear Darlin' struck the most memorable chord with audiences.

Special credit should be given to the stylish and very inventive set and lighting team, who created one of the best arena shows of the season, but the greatest praise of course goes to the very talented and very articulate Olly Murs, who certainly proved his credentials to becoming a true all round, multi- media national treasure with the same appeal as Cliff Richard and Tommy Steele, with long-term appeal.