Hip-swivelling to the top

A Maltese-born Elvis tribute artiste placed second in the first Elvis World Cup, which took place in Wales last Sunday.

Gordon Barbara, known as Gordon Elvis, of Naxxar, clinched the runner-up spot beating finalists from 12 countries. All were national competition winners.

The 26-year-old performed the singer's favourites Bridge Over Troubled Water, Walk A Mile In My Shoes and Polk Salad Annie.

His career took off four years ago when he sang karaoke in a bar in Malta. The barman pulled him aside and told him he had a good voice, suggesting he should become a tribute act to Elvis Presley to earn his living. He immediately stepped into his blue suede shoes as a tribute artiste and, after spending the following two-and-a-half years performing in Malta, he moved to the UK. He now tours the country, driving to two to three shows each week.

"As a six-year-old I was already imitating Elvis because my parents are fans. I grew up listening to his music and I love it; it's part of me," he said from his home in Tamworth, Staffordshire.

He said that those present at the Elvis World Cup thought he would not be able to bring the great singer back to life because of his Maltese accent but when they heard him sing their opinions changed and he was tipped to win the top prize.

Although he placed second, he said he was very happy with the result.

Gordon Elvis won several UK competitions in the past, such as last year's Elvis Porthcawl and '68 Comeback.

Scotland's Johnny Lee Memphis won the competition, with Ireland's Tom Gilson placing third.