[bbfan1991]

A vicar has quit his job to become an Elvis Presley impersonator.

Andy Kelso, 64, claimed that God had sent him a message to follow the Church of Elvis.

He has now begun performing as the King at various local pubs and clubs, as well as a number of churches.

Kelso explained: "One day I was out walking the dogs in between church services and I felt God say to me very strongly, 'Take Elvis to the Church!'

"It was a shock but after one concert there was a lot of interest from churches who wanted to connect with their communities and my tribute act seems to connect.

"When I play, the venues are packed out and I've not looked back since."

Formerly the Reverend at Christ Church in Matchborough, Worcestershire, Kelso quit last year after more than 25 years.

However, he explained that his former colleagues and congregation approve of his lifestyle change.

"I recently went to a care home where most of the patients had dementia. I was wondering how I would go down but as soon as I appeared as Elvis and started singing, the residents came alive and started singing and dancing," he said.

"It was amazing and very humbling. When you listen to Elvis's gospel songs, they're just so from the heart and they really seem to speak to people.

"It's true that for many years he went far away from his Christian roots but he never stopped believing the basics of Christianity."