Meatloaf

>Blickling Hall

North Norfolk rocked like a bat out of hell last night as Meatloaf wowed a capacity Blickling Hall audience.

The scene was set perfectly as fans picnicked around the picturesque lakeside setting and the glorious sunshine helped fuel a buzzing atmosphere. Then just after 8.30pm the larger than life American rocker, dressed all in black, burst on stage surrounded by a gaggle of leather-clad electric guitarists and backing singers.

Despite nearly 30 years of tireless touring and performing, Mr Loaf still gives it 110 per cent on stage with the same energy and passion.

His trademark voice, stage persona and lively showmanship were still evident as he belted out famous tunes like Life Is a Lemon and I Want My Money Back, Bat out of Hell and I Would Do Anything for Love (But I Won't Do That).

A long summer tour of his soaring harmonies seemed to have taken its toll on the singer's booming tenor voice, but his excellent band and backing vocalists carried him through admirably.

And his legion of 9000 fans who flocked to Blickling Park last night were not disappointed.

Jackie Dawson, 56, from Watton said: "This is the first time that I have seen him live but I have loved him since the 70s. He is pure rock 'n' roll, a great singer and entertainer."

Sharon Diggens, 31, from Loddon, said she had been looking forward to the concert for months.

"I saw him at Wembley several years ago and he was spot-on. His voice may be suffering a bit but he is still a great showman."

Rock band Hurricane Party helped get the crowd into a frenzy before the show despite their lead guitarist breaking his arm earlier in the day.

They dedicated their final song of the evening to the Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital accident and emergency services.