WITH the release of the new Elton John biopic starring Taron Egerton, Blackburn’s very own Rocketman and leading Elton John tribute act Andy Crosbie is finding himself busier than ever promoting the film.

Mr Crosbie, of Revidge, has been performing both locally and abroad, singing and carrying out meet and greets with adoring Elton fans, before the film’s release next week.

He said: “I’m doing promo work in Tenerife, performing at cinemas in Germany and Holland, and all day on 24 and 25 May at Bolton’s Light cinema and shopping mall.

“I’m also at Stockport’s Light Cinema on May 26, and at the beginning of June I’ll travel down to London to perform at the Cineworld at the O2 arena, before travelling out to Ireland for a week’s worth of gigs to promote the movie.

“I’m a very busy tribute as it is, but with the new movie, it's gone nuts. The phone has not stopped ringing.”

Mr Crosbie, who has been involved in the tribute world for more than 30 years, touring the world as the famous piano man, says he’s hoping the movie, which comes out on May 22, will bring in a whole new audience of Elton John fans.

He said: “It will let people see that Sir Elton was as barmy as The Rolling Stones. He was a real party animal and did some crazy stuff, and this is what I try to add to my shows. Taron Egerton who plays Elton is awesome.”

Explaining that Taron and Elton have been good friends since the making of the film,The Kingsman, Mr Crosbie said Rocketman, which is based mainly in the 70s, documents Elton’s fallouts with his father, as well as his drugs and partying days and his concert playing around the world.

He said: “Playing Elton’s manager is Bodyguard and Game of Thrones star, Richard Madden, and in his words, ‘it’s gonna be a wild ride’.”

Anyone who wants to get behind Mr Crosbie is welcome to attend his live performances in Bolton next week, where photo opportunities will be available on request. Visit www.elton-john-tribute.co.uk.