JOHNNY Cowling, recently paid a visit to Davidstow Church, performing the music of Elvis Presley, writes Helen Pusey.

On May 15, the church was filled with the smell of warm pasties, beakers of cider and cups of tea, along with a large audience eager to listen to Mr Cowling’s entertainment.

Windows were creatively dressed in tribute to the songs of the King of Rock and Roll, and the songs included Heartbreak Hotel, Love Me Tender, Return to Sender, In the Ghetto, Crying in the Chapel and Viva Las Vegas.

There was an excited atmosphere as sound equipment arrived and even an Elvis appeared from nowhere, dressed in full white suit and red tie, being the dedicated Elvis fan, Francis Larkin, who was ready to enjoy his 28th concert with Mr Cowling.

Priest in charge, the Rev Deryn Roberts, introduced and welcomed Mr Cowling, but before long, everyone was standing as he began to sing ‘I’m Gonna Walk Those Golden Stairs’. ‘In the Ghetto’ followed, bringing a huge round of applause, and hands clapped to ‘Old Time Religion’.

Several laughs and jokes had everyone of all ages giggling, and then ‘Love me Tender’ was sung with Johnny and Boscastle buoy Roger Nicholls. The crowd applauded enthusiastically, and then ‘Peace in the Valley’ was sung.

Following this successful evening, Mr Cowling said: “Handsome little evening at Davidstow church, and all in aid of the church organ I played earlier. It has been a brilliant evening; support your churches — they are the hub of the community.”

Once the raffle had been drawn, ‘Please Release Me’ was sung to celebrate a wedding anniversary. Fortunately, ‘Are You Lonesome Tonight’ followed rather swiftly.

Francis Larkin in full costume took to the stage with Johnny for his choice, which was ‘Burning Love’. Johnny went on to sing ‘If I Could Dream’, which was originally recorded by Elvis in 1968 for his comeback tour.

To conclude, Johnny sang ‘I Just Can’t Help Believing’, and had everyone clapping and swaying from side to side with smiles and laughter.

To bring the evening to an end, a medley of Elvis gospel songs were sung. The total amount raised is still to be announced, but it is hoped the evening will help to restore the organ to its former glory.