A FORMER vicar who has spent the last eight years working as an Elvis impersonator and peformed at Pershore’s Plum Festival is set to retire.
Andy Kelso will perform the King of Rock and Roll’s greatest hits – including his lesser known gospel songs – during his farewell concert on Friday, November 29 at South Redditch Social Club.
After leaving his post as the vicar of Christ Church in Matchborough in 2009, the 72-year-old was left wondering what to do next with his life.
“I would pray to God, asking him if there was anything else he needed me to do,” he said.
“After 15 months of praying I heard a message which said – ‘take Elvis to church’.”
Andy thought his imagination was running wild but after sharing his story with others, he was encouraged to swap his dog collar for the famous white jump suit.
Since launching his act in Redditch, where 250 people turned up for his first concert, Andy has gone on to tour all over the UK.
He has performed abroad, at weddings, fetes and at the festival held evert August.
In 2014 he visited Belfast dressed as Elvis on a historic peace mission to bring Catholics and Protestants together.
He walked the whole Peace Line as Elvis, sang songs and invited people to a concert in aid of Northern Ireland Children’s Hospice.
“Now that it’s time to say goodbye – I better be careful what I pray for next,” added Andy.
“So if you want to be part of a very special evening, going back to where I first started, then please book your ticket.”
Tickets for Andy’s final show cost £5 and can be purchased by calling Kim on 07803277800 Tadgh on 07976934549. The concert is expected to start at 7pm.
Visit www.revelvis.co.uk for more information.
