The minute she walked in the joint, we could tell she was a woman of distinction. Shirley Bassey, the original big spender, decided to spend a little time in Kent on Bank Holiday Monday, when she performed at an open air concert. As thousands flocked to Teston, near Maidstone, reporter Steven Farrance was there to soak up the atmosphere.

On Monday night, superstar Shirley Bassey performed to thousands in front of the 17th century building in the tiny village of Teston. More than 400 people from musicians to electricians were involved in putting on the £200,000 show.

Initially, preparations for the concert were plagued with problems. Michael Bolton was originally meant to perform but pulled out of the European leg of his tour. There was controversy when villagers protested, saying it would be too noisy and attract far too much traffic to inappropriate roads. The concert was also marred by tragedy. Mark Roberts, of promoters Tasco Productions, died last month when a truck ran him over while reversing. Mr Roberts, of Chainhurst, was a huge Shirley Bassey fan and worked extremely hard to get his idol to perform in Kent. Fellow promoter Joe Browne said: "Getting Shirley here was very much Mark's triumph and the concert was a marvellous tribute to him."

It was not a full field, but about 7,000 of the expected 10,000 were there. People of all ages enjoyed food, drink and music under the clear night sky.

John and Diane Marsh, of South Street, Whitstable, were VIP guests at the show after Mr Marsh's double glazing firm in Maidstone was offered tickets.

Mr Marsh said: "I've been a Shirley Bassey fan for 30 years and have just about everything she's ever done on tape. She is such a great presence on stage and the power of her voice astounds me."

Maidstone Mayor Robin Judd was also there to enjoy the show. He said: "The hospitality has been superb and there's been such a happy atmosphere here throughout the day.

© 1998 Kent Messenger

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