Then again, England would be about to humble Germany in Vienna, petrol would be free - and clean - and it would never rain in June.

So in the meantime Joe has to settle for a woefully small, but intensely loyal crowd here, at a concert postponed from earlier in the year.

Then again, a little over two years ago he was fighting for his life in hospital, so given a free choice...

A little frail on his feet maybe, but as friend, promoter and warm-up comedian Tony Jo had already vouched, his remarkable singing voice - coupled with the ability to mimic a host of other singers - remains undiminished.

Although something of a maverick entertainer, on stage and off, Longthorne has always generated a reverent fan following.

Given all the circumstances it was excusable that he should indulge himself, and that they should return the favour.

Backed by a 10-piece band and support singers, that would grace any stage show, he flitted about his 90-minute playlist, mumbling and meandering around a few anecdotes. There was a predictable set of standards, and an accompanying procession of impressions - many from an earlier golden age of showbusiness.

But when all is sung and done, Joe Longthorne is a cultured and articulate song stylist, with an awesome ability to hold a note for longer than some latter-day TV talent hopefuls will be famous.

By the time of his American Trilogy finale, and the inevitable stage rush of flowers, gifts and good wishes, no-one would deny him a heartily-deserved ovation.

David Upton