Lulu set for Llangollen International Musical Eisteddfod

One of Britain's most enduring pop stars, whose career has spanned five decades will bring her latest show to the Llangollen International Musical Eisteddfod this year.

Lulu, who is the only female singer to appear in the charts every decade since the 1960s, will appear in the six-day long Eisteddfod's Opening Gala Concert which will be held at 7.45pm on July 4.

It will mark the start of a programme of music and competition featuring performers from across the globe and other big names from Russell Watson to McFly.

Lulu says her concert would be an evening of exciting music, dance and more.

The tiny star with the big voice says she is looking forward to being in Llangollen.

"I have been to Wales millions of times but never to Llangollen. I have been hearing all about this festival and all that it stands for and I think it is a wonderful thing.

"Music is a healer and this festival seems to have proved it by uniting the world through song for all these years."

Lulu - born Marie MacDonald McLaughlin Lawrie - had her first hit with Shout in 1964 and she soon embarked on a whirlwind of hits, tours and TV.

In the 1970s she teemed up with David Bowie in the hit, The Man who Sold the World while another collaboration saw her joining the hottest boy band on the block and scoring her first British number one with Take That on Relight My Fire.

She also recorded an entire album of superstar collaborations with Elton, Sting, Paul McCartney, Ronan Keating and soul legend, Bobby Womack in 2002.

"I love doing collaborations and duets," Lulu said.

"I really feel the music and working with someone else."

"That's why I love doing the Lulu and friends concert. I can't yet reveal who those friends will be but it is going to be very exciting. We will of course be doing some old favourites but there will be a lot of surprises during the evening."

Now in her 60s Lulu is as youthful as ever, in looks and in spirit. Her favourite music of today includes Adele, Bruno Mars and McFly.

But she admits she loves being a grandmother to her son's 16-month-old daughter, Isabella Rose.

"My son calls me Mumma Lulu so I am guessing Isabella will call me Nana Lulu. I love her as much as I love my music and because my son and his wife work so hard in their restaurant I do get to see a lot of her."

More information about the concert and the eisteddfod are available on http://www.international-eisteddfod.co.uk or from the box office on (01978) 862001.

By Sue Austin