EVERY so often the Wyvern produces a show that is out of this world. Superlatives cannot do it justice. You must be there for the experience. I speak in praise of Helen Shapiro.

Whether you were an original fan of the 14-year-old star or a recent convert to her jazz or gospel singing, there was something for everyone.

Helen looked fabulous in red jacket and black trousers in the first half and all white in the second.

She had an immediate rapport with the audience, telling us anecdotes about her career.

She sang her classics, of course Don't Treat Me Like a Child, You Don't Know, and Walking Back to Happiness, then moved on with her new love, Blues and jazz songs from the 30s onwards, with tributes to Gershwin, Duke Ellington and Humphrey Lyttelton. Her voice, once strangely deep as a child, was perfect for this genre, rather like an Ella Fitzgerald or Peggy Lee.

Her strong, clear diction oozed confidence and enjoyment. She generously gave solo spots to her band, Simply Shapiro piano, double bass, guitar, saxes and percussion.

The best interaction between Helen and the band came in The Quality of Mercer, a medley of Johnny Mercer songs.

Afterwards a crowd waited for Helen to sign tapes, CDs or programmes. I wanted to ask her how could she give all this up if it really was her farewell tour?

Truly a legend.

Val Hemmens

The Crescent

Common Platt

Swindon