AN East Lancashire Elvis tribute act is to be given the chance of a lifetime to perform in Memphis after winning a prestigious competition.

Dad-of-one Paul Molloy has been offered the chance to perform at the superstar's home, Graceland on the anniversary of his death in August after winning the title of ‘Best Gospel Elvis’ at the European Elvis Tribute Contest in Birmingham.

The former kitchen fitter who has been working as a tribute act full time for 12 years, said: “I entered into this competition specifically to win this title.

“Elvis was a big gospel singer.

“During his lifetime he won three Grammy awards for his gospel music but this is part of his career which is often forgotten.

“Winning this title on Sunday was the single best moment of my career as it was a title I had never won.”

Paul, 41, of Burnley Road, Rawtenstall was crowned ‘Best Elvis Tribute Act in England’ in 2010 at the Ultimate Elvis finals in Bridlington.

He beat 80 Elvis look-a-likes to snatch the title of ‘Best Gospel Elvis in Europe’ on Sunday with his rendition of ‘Peace in the Valley’.

The award-winning singer, who auditioned twice for Stars in Yours Eyes, said: “One of the rewards for winning the competition is the chance to perform in Memphis during the week-long anniversary celebratitions of Elvis’ death.

“Competition judges are always keeping an eye on the circuit and have approached me about performing at Graceland.

“This would be a dream come true.

“I have a lot of fans in America as they often follow the competitions. It is strange to think I will be performing to Elvis’s die hard fans at his home.”

Paul discovered he sounded like Elvis when he recorded a demo tape with a band when he was 21-years-old.

The performer who takes to the stage twice a week will be next competing at the 2012 Ultimate Elvis Championships held in Bridlington in May.