Star-packed tribute for Sir Cliff

Sir Cliff is currently at number three in the UK singles chart

Singer Sir Cliff Richard has marked 50 years of chart success with a star-studded tribute in central London.

Organised by children's charity the Variety Club, the event was attended by Cilla Black, Gloria Hunniford, Andrew Lloyd Webber and Sir Tim Rice.

Cherie Blair, David Gest and Dame Kelly Holmes also joined the celebrations as the 67-year-old performer marked his half-century in show business.

Last week he enjoyed another Top 10 hit with Thank You For a Lifetime.

The single entered the chart at number three, scuppering his attempt to score a UK number one in each of six consecutive decades.

The singer showed no signs of disappointment, though, as he posed for photographers and signed autographs outside the Dorchester hotel.

"Cliff is a true national treasure with a career that has spanned 50 years," said John Sachs, chair of Friday's lunchtime event.

Sir Cliff is also promoting an autobiography, entitled My Life, My Way, which is currently top of the Sunday Times non-fiction book chart.