A postman is sending a message that he is king of the tribute acts when he take part in an impersonator competition.

Nicky Hart has been donning the rhinestone jumpsuits for his moonlight role as an Elvis entertainer for the past eight years and this will be his first competition.

“Most of the Elvis competitions are up North or in Wales so it’s really nice to have one this far south,” he said.

“Usually there’s nothing before Birmingham and this one is in Norwich.”

Nicky, of Acacia Avenue, Hornchurch, became a fan of the “King” at a young age by watching old movies with his parents and listening to their records.

“I just really liked Elvis,” said the 31-year-old. “Now I go out on stage and do a whole range of songs from the 50s, right through to the 70s, wearing the wigs and costumes.

“I love it and I’d love to do it full time, but there’s not enough work to keep me going.”

Nicky has worked as a postman since he left school and started off as a cadet.

“I think I was one of the last bunch of postal cadets to go in and I’ve been doing it for 15 years now,” he explained.

“I get a lot of support from the Post Office and my friends who often come to support my shows if they’re nearby.”

The King impersonator said he still feels the nerves before a performance despite emanating Elvis’ charm and charisma on stage.

“I remember being really nervous before my first gig in Rainham of all places and I have become more confident over time.

“I will always get

nervous but it’s good nervous.”

It’s no surprise Nicky can get a little apprehensive when heading on to the stage as occasionally women seem to forget it’s not the real deal and throw themselves at the posing postie.

“My fiancée might not be very happy if I say some stories, but there’s always security and the women are taken away if they’re too drunk,” he said.

The competition will take place later this year and will be one of the most far flung gigs for the impersonator who normally performs around London and Essex.

With a few months to practise Nicky’s fiancée and their cat, Penelope, will be lucky enough to hear his set before anyone else.