THE cream of Malvern society turned out in style for Talk of the Town in the Forum Theatre.

Around 150 willing partygoers donned their spats, boas and weird feathery head-dresses for the swing-inspired soiree.

Entertainment for this refined evening was provided initially by the excellent Malvern Big Band.

As the alcohol flowed the band brought on the astoundingly young Sharon Lau, an excellent voice for a 17-year-old or indeed, for a singer of any age.

Alas, Sharon was later replaced on the mic with the band's bass player, who though proficient at his instrument really should cease dabbling with appalling jokes.

Singer Marc Drew then took to the floor, a sort of pint-sized Robbie Williams with more than a touch of Tom Jones to him.

The ladies, many of whom may have kept Alka-Seltzer in business the following morning, loved him, although his champagne pilfering antics may have taken the laddish attitude a little far.

So the refined yet moderately inebriated ensemble left at the end of the night, a smile on their face and a spring in their step.

I believe future events of this ilk will be welcomed in the town with open arms.

Phill Tromans