Celebrity gatecrasher to Sting's Henley set...
Sting had an unexpected guest during the sold-out opening night of the Henley Festival.
Madness singer Suggs walked on mid-set to realise a childhood dream of sharing a stage with the former Police frontman.
“I mean this most sincerely,” he said. “When I was a kid I used to look at Sting and say, ‘one day, God damn it, given the chance,’ and this is it right before you.”
A merry Suggs was ushered off the floating stage and re-appeared on the lawn moments later where he posed for pictures with fans.
It was an ironic moment for Stewart Collins, the festival’s artistic director, who has tried for years to get Madness on the bill.
Sting had the crowd on their feet as he performed some of his best-known songs including 'Everything Little Thing She Does Is Magic', 'Message In A Bottle' and 'Roxanne'.
“I have to confess, I have never been to Henley,” said the 60-year-old. “Do you always wear bow ties here?”
Persistent showers meant the grounds of the enclosure were soggy and festival organisers announced that boots could be worn with the black-tie dress code.
The rain disappeared in time for Sting’s performance, which was followed by a spectacular fireworks display.
(c) Henley Standard