CROONER Edmund Hockridge entertained the crowds at the launch of a new retirement complex in Trowbridge.

Pensioners at Regal Court, Bythesea Road, were singing along to the 83-year-old's greatest hits dating back to the 50s and 60s when he made a guest appearance on Friday.

Hockridge starred in more than 1,000 performances of the musical Carousel and is the only singer/actor to take the starring role in four consecutive West End shows.

Jayne Scarfe, of McCarthy and Stone, said the 35 residents at the complex were thrilled to see the entertainer.

"They really enjoyed themselves and knew a lot of the songs he was performing," she said.

"He spoke about Bruce Forsyth, the late Bob Monkhouse and a host of people he has worked with over the years.

"His partner Jackie joined him at the end for a song. He met her when she was a singer in a show."

A £250 cheque was presented to the Canadian-born singer, who is raising funds for a guide dogs charity.

Regal Court is a complex for the over 60s, equipped with a 24-hour call system, laundry room, guest suite and landscaped gardens. Only 15 flats are left unoccupied in the 59-home development.