Elvis Impersonators Battle To Be King Of Europe

Elvis impersonators from across the world have been competing in Birmingham to be crowned Europe's king of rock n' roll.

More than 70 sequinned singers swivelled their pelvises in front of a panel of judges at the European Elvis Championships .

The winner will pick up a cash prize, a holiday to Memphis, Tennessee and a jumpsuit made by the creators of Presley's elaborate outfits.

The annual event is held around Elvis' birthday weekend on January 8 and celebrates the musical and cultural icon, who died at the age of 42 on August 16, 1977.

Organiser Michael King, from North Wales, said the competitors hail from all over the UK and as far afield as Austria, Italy, France, Hungary and Germany.

"I think first and foremost there was only one Elvis," he said.

"He was a one-off, his music stands the test of time.

"There's so many different things, so many different facets to Elvis and his musical career. There really is something for everyone.

"He is loved the world over."

Some of the competitors were professional Elvis impersonators, spending thousands of pounds on their stage outfits.

But the weekend also included an under-14s competition, a gospel competition, live bands, Elvis showcases, Elvis merchandise, Elvis disco, Elvis video and a novice contest.