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We Want The Osmonds
They came in their droves to see a group of the world's best-loved pop siblings perform one last time – and they were not disappointed. It was an evening of nostalgia as The Osmonds rolled back the years and sang their hearts out to a packed crowd at Ipswich's Regent theatre last night. The four American brothers, who shot to fame more than three decades ago, proved they could still do their stuff as generations of fans flocked to see them. The Osmonds – Jay, Merrill, Wayne and bug-eating Jimmy – are on their first tour since the late 80's. But even though they have been away for so long, their status as pop heart-throbs has never waned – and their followers in Suffolk are as devoted today as they have ever been. Miserable wet weather and wintry temperatures were not going to stop the hordes of fans from watching their favourites again. Speaking before last night's concert, three generations of Osmonds fans were looking forward to finally seeing their beloved band in their home town. Pensioner Joyce Foreman was joined by daughter Claire Haystead and granddaughter Katie Haystead. Claire, 44, of Rushmere St Andrew, said : “I have been a huge fan since 1972, but didn't see them live until a couple of years ago. When I have seen them before they have been fantastic. I have travelled all over to watch them so for them to come to Ipswich for the first time is amazing. Just don't make me choose my favourite!” Daughter Katie, 17, added: “I'm just a mad keen fan just like my mum, so I suppose it's her fault! It's great they have come to Ipswich and it's nice to see my mum so happy. They can sing, they can write their own music and they have time for their fans.” Speaking exclusively to the Evening Star earlier this month, Jimmy Osmond revealed that this tour could be their last together. However four sisters who were at the concert – 33 years after they were at an Osmonds concert in London – said they hoped it would not be the last time the group took to the road. Sheridan Norfolk, from Stutton, said “I saw them when they were much younger – and I was much younger to – in 1973 at Earls Court. Part of the reason we came tonight was to reminisce.” Sister Michelle Pallant, also from Stutton, added: “Our mum must have saved for months and months for us to all go to the concert at Earls Court. She must have saved every last penny.” Their sisters, Tracey Locker from Stutton and Lisa Fisk from Holbrook, said they had turned out for the concerts because it was sure to be a night packed full of “good fun.”
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