FANS of a chart-topping 70s singing star from Worcestershire are being invited to a special concert and annual convention to celebrate his music.

Clifford T Ward, who lives near Stockton-on-Teme, was forced to cut short his recording career after being diagnosed with multiple sclerosis in the 1980s.

But he continues to entertain fans around the globe with CD releases of his early work.

The annual convention and concert takes place on Sunday, October 1, at the Gainsborough Hotel, Bewdley Hill, Kidderminster.

It has been organised by a fan of his music, who says that it is always well attended because there are many people who enjoy the singer's music.

"Distance doesn't seem to be a problem," said Stephen Bagust. "We get a lot of people from Ireland and across this country. This year we're even expecting someone from Canada.

"It's a thank you from Clifford to all his fans. And his popularity is growing almost weekly as more and more people join the fan club."

The concert will kick-off with James Davey singing many favourite Clifford T Ward songs. He has become a firm fixture at the annual event.

There will also be a performance from London band School of Thought, who will play both Clifford T Ward numbers and many other rock and roll favourites.

They will be performing in Dublin in November when Ireland holds its first Clifford T Ward convention.

"Clifford had a lot of success in Ireland. He did a lot of touring and people love his music there," said Mr Bagust.

The singer, who had a top 10 hit in 1973 with Gaye, will be making an appearance at the Kidderminster convention.

There will also be an auction of various memorabilia and all proceeds form the event will make the wheelchair-bound musician's life easier.

The convention starts on Sunday, October 1, at noon and runs until 5pm.

Tickets for the event cost £5, and they are available from Fagin's Bookshop, Rowland Hill Centre, Kidderminster, or can be bought on the door.