DR Kershaw's Hospice patients and staff where were all shook up as the Mayor transformed himself into the "King" when he rock n rolled up to an official opening ceremony.

First citizen Councillor Shadab Qumer turned up to the Royton hospice complete with a quiff, sideburns shades and a dazzling ruffle shirt to cut the ribbon on the refurbished Day Services and extended Café K.

Councillor Qumer decided to don the Elvis guise - fittingly "accessorised" with his own bling, the mayoral chain - after being tipped off the day patients were also celebrating the retirement of popular staff nurse Kay O’Neill who is renowned for dressing up in an Elvis costume to lighten the mood.

Day Services patients were thrilled to see the mayor joining in with the spirit of the occasion as they paid their own tribute to Kay by wearing specially made Elvis-emblazoned T-shirts.

He even helped to serenade Kay with a few choruses of one of the King's biggest hits, “The Wonder of You”.

After chatted with patients in the impressive new café and he also found time to join in a session of Tai Chi before losing the wig and glasses to perform his official function.

He was officially welcomed to the hospice by board chairman Vernon Cressey and chief executive Joanne Sloan who both paid tribute to the efforts of staff who helped make the transformation possible.

They also welcomed back day patients who had to take an enforced break from the service while alterations were completed.

After officially declaring the facilities open, kind-hearted Councillor Qumer had a trio of surprises for the hospice.

He presented Joanne with a cheque for £1,000 to spend on equipment for a new children’s area within the family unit and made a presentation to the hospice’s spiritual care coordinator, Pauline Brierley, on the eve of her wedding.

He also handed over four tickets to the Asian Business Leaders Dinner which will become prizes in a free raffle for day patients.

“This is a very special organisation and it has been a pleasure to be able to meet so many people and be part of the celebration to mark the opening of the improved facilities,” said Councillor Qumer.

"I am sure they will be well used."

The mayor has proved a big hit with staff and patients alike.

Following a recent tour he met the Friday Under 50’s group and treated five of them to tickets to the Mayor’s Ball as his special guests.

He said their utter thrill and enjoyment on the night was the best thank-you gift of all.