I LAST saw Paul Heaton live when he was with the Housemartins many years ago.

His energy, singing style and enthusiasm struck a cord with me and I have been a fan ever since.

And, after attending his gig at the Castlefield Bowl in Manchester, I'm pleased to say he has lost none of his individual style and humour.

Appearing alongside his long-term sidekick Jacqui Abbott, Heaton treated us to a cracking mix of Beautiful South and Housemartins tracks.

Who could forget Happy Hour, Get up of our Knees and Build? Absolute classics as far as I'm concerned.

Appearing on stage after Manc punk icons The Buzzcocks, Heaton smashed it from the start. He treated us to Housemartins classics Sheep and Five Get Over Excited, along with many more.

The crowd were loving it - and a Metro driver on the bridge over the venue even stopped to have a look. As everyone turned to look, Heaton joked: "Have you lot ever see trains before?"

Heaton got the crowd going Old Red Eyes, One Last Love Song and I'll Sail This Ship Alone. There was a real treat for local fans when he performed Manchester - a great track about his favourite city.

But, for me, the highlight of the night was the Housemartins classic Caravan of Love. Every single member of the audience sang along to the song and, to be honest, was pretty emotional.

Be sure to catch Paul Heaton if he's playing near you - you won't be disappointed.

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