Cliff Richard Rehearses in Dublin

Richard, who released his first single 'Move It' in 1958 – it went to No.2 in the UK charts – scored his first No.1 it in 1959 with 'Living Doll'. In all he has had 14 UK No.1 singles, among dozens of hit records.

Richard and his band are currently rehearsing in a building close to the O2, in preparation for the Soulicious tour. Sources confirmed that members of the touring ensemble were holed up in the rehearsal space, working on what promises to be a fascinating live production. Among those in the Soulicious cast are Freda Payne, Jaki Graham, Lamont Dozier, James Ingram, Percy Sledge ('When A Man Loves A Woman'), Marilyn McCoo and Billy Davis Jr.

So far no Dublin date has been set, though an announcement may well be imminent. The tour kicks off in Nottingham's Capital FM Arena on Saturday 15th October, hitting London's O2 on 25th and 26th October.