SHOPPERS in Sittingbourne High Street took a double take when "Michael Jackson" came to town.

The real Mr Jackson hadn't absconded from his trial in America. It was Ben Bowman, the Michael Jackson tribute act from Sheppey, promoting his forthcoming gig at the Wyvern Hall, Sittingbourne, on Saturday (March 26).

Flanked by two umbrella wielding bodyguards and surrounded by his entourage, he also visited Canterbury and Sheerness.

Ben's manager, Steve Hollis, said: “Several hundred flyers were handed out to members of the public in each location. Public reaction varied from wonder, to shock, to bemusement and to outright enthusiasm.

“Ben responded to calls of ‘Michael’ with peace signs as he gingerly moved through the town centres with his bad back.”

Ben - A Tribute to Michael Jackson, at the Wyvern Hall, Central Avenue, starts at 7.30pm. Tickets cost £6 for adults, £5 for students and OAP’s and £3 for children.

To book online visit www.battmj.net