Putting most artists half his age to shame, Tony Christie, now 82, brought more than a little of old fashioned entertainment to the Gosforth Civic.  Managing as a true professional through both his age and also one of the coldest nights in recent times, Christie proves to be the ultimate professional – his voice is still soaring, his stage presence still precise, and his suits still extra sharp.  Playing to a sold out venue, on what is billed as his “Great farewell” tour, Christie produces a fine 90 minute set and after opening with classic “Walk like a panther” his shows combines old greats (“Las Vegas” and “Don’t go down to Reno” standing out), with recent tunes (“Just like Yesterday” and the Richard Hawley produced “Danger is a woman in love”) and numerous covers (a spectacular “Mr Bojangles” in particular).  Supported by a four piece band, including a flat steel guitar player, Chrstie’s sound borders more towards acoustic- and in particular country – this evening as he moves through old and new hits in fine form.  In many ways Christie is inspirational tonight. Excellent.