Tom act gives night unusual spice

An acclaimed Tom Jones tribute act who wowed audiences across the country on a top television show helped to spice things up at the grand opening of a new restaurant in Rugeley.

Simon Abbotts, who has become known as the Black Country's answer to the Welsh crooner, was guest of honour at the grand opening of Rugeley's Spice Bazaar restaurant to the delight of its bosses.

Mr Abbotts got a taste of fame when he sang his way through to the semi-final of the BBC's The One And Only and agreed to perform at the opening of the town's Spice Bazaar to ensure it was a night to remember.

He entertained guests with a host of the star's most well-known songs and had people singing along at their tables. Diners were also entertained by the evening's compere and comedian David St John and also got to enjoy a swing performance of Frank Sinatra, Bobby Darin and Dean Martin from singer Lee Osborne.

The restaurant in Bow Street was formerly the Bengal Spice but is now under new management and its bosses threw a grand opening to mark their commitment to the town.

Rugeley Councillor Mick Grocott attended the event as well as district councillor Diane Todd, county councillor Janos Toth and Heath Hayes parish councillor Bob Todd. Invited guests were able to sample dishes on a carefully selected menu before sitting back to enjoy the evening's entertainment.

Tom Jones tribute Mr Abbotts then declared the restaurant officially open by cutting the ribbon at its entrance watched by local councillors and other guests.

Mr Abbotts, from Dudley, became known around the region after appearing on the BBC's The One And Only programme which was a quest to find the country's best tribute act.

He got to sing in front of a television audience of millions as part of the show and has been impersonating the Welsh crooner for the last 10 years.

After getting voted off the show, he returned for the end of show medley.