Back To The 80s in East Park

THE crowd sang every hit word-perfect as they danced along in fluorescent outfits and mullet wigs.

In fact, so enthusiastic were the fans at the Back to the 80s gig, Bananarama dubbed them "the best they had performed to in ages".

The cult pop band was joined by The Human League, T'pau, Go West and Belinda Carlisle as they sang their greatest hits in East Park, on Saturday.

More than 3,300 people, many donning 1980s fashion, went to the picnic-style open air concert in east Hull.

Following the three-hour performance, there was a firework finale which could be seen for miles.

After belting out Venus, Love In The First Degree and I Heard A Rumour – complete with the original dance moves – Sara Dallin and Keren Woodward of Bananarama spoke to the Mail.

Sara said: "The crowd were fantastic. They were so up for it and they sang every word."

When asked why 1980s music was still so popular, Sarah said: "I think all the acts were so individual back then – Spandau Ballet, Duran Duran – it was happy, feel-good music."

The band said they had been stunned to hear of the death of Michael Jackson this week, who had a huge influence on music of that decade and beyond.

Sara said: "He was just the best dancer, the best singer – no one compares to his talent."

Also performing on the night was T'pau, who worked up the crowd as Carol Decker, wearing a red bowler hat, belted out China In Your Hand.

She was followed by Go West, who drew some of the biggest cheers of the night with King Of Wishful Thinking, the hit made famous by Hollywood film Pretty Woman.

Belinda Carlisle wowed the audience with Heaven Is A Place On Earth, and Circle In The Sand.

The Human League took to the stage as the final act.

The flamboyant band, headed by singer Phil Oakey, performed huge hits Tell Me When and Don't You Want Me Baby?

Paul Cross, 37, of east Hull, said: "It's been a great night. We need more of this kind of thing in the park. Go West were fantastic."