A smarter-looking David Essex was welcomed by what can only be described as his fanatical fans at the York Barbican Centre.

A fitting tribute to a career which began more than 25 years ago.

From Godspell and That'll Be The Day, David Essex has come a long way, and still performs 50 concerts a year. He's one of a rare breed: singer, composer, actor a gifted all-rounder.

From the early days David Essex had a massive and hysterical fan base, and nearly 30 years on these loyal fans are lapping up concerts up and down the country every week.

What's great to see is a performer who sings every song as if it were for the first time.

In no particular order, Rock On, Lamplight, plus number one singles Hold Me Close and Gonna Make You A Star, backed up with Oh What A Circus, which made number three in the charts, had the audience pleading for more.

He was awarded an OBE 1999 and featured on This Is Your Life.

Famous for his tireless charity work, this loveable Cockney is still on the top of his game. And his legions of die-hard fans enjoyed every moment just as much as he did.

David Essex will still be wowing audiences in 20 years' time

This was an outstanding night of entertainment.

Gary Sullivan

Updated: 09:10 Monday, October 29, 2001