David Gest is still touring...

But tour organisers have now confirmed that the show will go on and is coming to Preston’s Guild Hall on July 7 as planned.

The David Gest is Not Dead But Alive with Soul tour will now go ahead as a tribute to the star, organisers announced.

David’s close friend Imad Handi has been given permission by the deceased Celebrity Big Brother star’s lawyers to press ahead with the shows .

Band of Gold singer Freda Payne will take on David’s role as compere for the concerts.

Imad – who has co-produced David’s tours for several years – hopes fans will come out to pay their respects to the concert promoter.

He said: “Just like myself, all the artists were devastated when they learned David had died. Over the years they had become like a family together due to their close working relationship and the musicians were determined to go ahead with the tour to remember David with their music.

“Although he was known for his reality TV appearances in the UK, he lived for hosting gigs and his soul reviews were always the highlight of his year.

“I did think about changing the name of the tour but then I decided to keep it as it is in keeping with David’s mischievous sense of humour.

“And also it’s true, he may sadly be gone but his spirit is alive in the music he loved.”

The soul tour of the UK is set to feature performances from music legends Russell Thompkins Jr, Deniece Williams, Peabo Bryson, The Tymes, Freda Payne, Melba Moore, Anita Ward and Fern Kinney.

Tickets are on sale for the show at Preston Guild Hall on 7th July 2016 and can be purchased online at www.prestonguildhall.com or by calling the Box Office on 01772 80 44 44.

Preston Guild Hall is contacting all current ticket holders with updated information.