An ELVIS Presley tribute singer is raising money for Comic Relief by performing for passengers in his taxi.

Tony Mclennan from Poole, known to his fans as Tony Tupelo, will dress up and sing Elvis’s songs to his customers from Monday, March 11, to Friday, March 15.

He drives an independent cab for Ferndown Cars.

Tony will don handmade Elvis Presley costumes, including his famous sideburns and jumpsuit. He is also planning to wear a red nose for the occasion.

He has already raised £170 for the cause and hopes that people will donate more money throughout the week.

Tony said: “I really want to give back to people, and a lot of people love Elvis, especially since the latest films have come out.

“As a child, I grew up in a children’s home, so raising money for children who are living in poverty is a cause really close to my heart.

“I thought this would be a good way to give back and raise some money for underprivileged children.”

Bournemouth Echo: Tony TupeloTony Tupelo (Image: Tony McLennan)

Tony has been an Elvis Presley impersonator for one year and is now entering big competitions around the country.

His passion for Elvis impersonation began after he performed karaoke with friends. He later watched the ETA European championships.

Tony then decided to give it a go.

He said: “After my first competition, I absolutely fell in love with it.

“I am a big fan of Elvis, and I have been since I was a child when I listened to his music with my mother.”

Tony said that he loves to sing Elvis’s ballads; among his favourites are, Can’t Help Falling in Love, Are you Lonesome Tonight? and Love Me Tender.

He added: “I have loads of different Elvis shirts, which I get locally. I will put on my Elvis wig, with the sideburns and belt.

“I can’t wait to go around saying, ‘Thank you very much to everyone’.

“I just want to make people happy.

“If they want a song or a picture, they can put a donation into the charity box.”

To donate, visit: www.facebook.com/donate/785858346723714/?fundraiser_source=whatsapp_share.