Fans' Christmas wish granted

Glam rock fans flocked to the Robin 2 in Bilston to get in the festive spirit - with a little help from Roy Wood.

The Brummie-born singer entertained last night's 700-strong crowd with a string of hits from a career spanning four decades.

With his trademark long tresses and red-tinted glasses, Wood played favourites such as Flowers in the Rain, Angel Fingers and the song many of the crowd had come to hear, I Wish it Could Be Christmas Every Day.

Fans donned red hats and tinsel to dance along to the festive favourite. Fresh from touring with Status Quo, the co-founder of Electric Light Orchestra (ELO), The Move and Wizzard had the sold-out venue moving.

For Jo Morris, husband Baz and friends Sharon and Jegs Holland, the evening had helped them get in the Christmas spirit. "We came to see Roy Wood last year too," said Mrs Morris, aged 45, of Brereton, near Rugeley.

"We saw him in a pub down the road earlier. Last year, we spoke to him and had pictures taken with him. We were looking forward to hearing all his best hits at the Robin."

Ian Price, of Wordsley, Dudley, enjoyed his seventh trip to see Wood. "I'm a big fan," said the 43-year-old. I love his stuff from when he was with ELO. A lot of people were waiting for the Christmas song - it helps get you in the spirit."

Friend Kevin Wood, 49, also of Wordsley, said. "I'm a big fan and I've seen him a couple of times now.

"Everyone looks forward to hearing the Christmas song. It's the only Roy Wood song that's ever played on the radio." Bouncers also got into the spirit of things, donning red and white hats.

Loz Smith, 47, of Beechdale, Walsall,said: "It's always a good crowd that comes to see Roy Wood.

"It's a good little venue here."