Black Country musician recalls time he spent with Wham!

Sedgley entertainer Kenny Craig became friends with Andrew Ridgeley and the late George Michael after first meeting them during a charity football match at Molineux.

The pop stars invited Kenny to watch them at one of their gigs at Birmingham's NEC in the early 80s before inviting him back to their hotel and had a chat about music and his career.

Kenny recalled them as 'nice and genuine' young lads who at the time were around 23-years-old.

Cabaret singer Kenny said: "I met them during at a charity football game held at Wolverhampton Wanderer's Molineux ground in the early 80s.

"It was organised by ex-Wolves player Derek Dougan, who has passed away now.

"The proceeds went to his charity called Year Of The Child.

"After the game we were sat next to Andrew's mother, called Jenny, who was a school teacher.

"We kept in touch and Jenny sent me tickets to a Wham! concert in Birmingham, which was taking place the same year."

The football game saw celebrities attend and also take part. Among the stars present was actor Dennis Waterman, who starred in Minder, and Jess Conrad.

Kenny and Andrew Ridgeley were among those to don a Wolves shirt and take to the field to play in the charity game. Kenny said: "Me and my wife Pam went to show and afterwards we were invited back to their hotel in Birmingham, where we had a chat.

We talked about music and they were very interested in my career and asked if I had worked abroad. We had a great time. To get to the bar in the hotel, you had to be a key holder, and as I wasn't one, Andrew said whatever you want we will get you.

"I thought that was very nice. At the time they were just breaking through. I was working abroad when I heard the news about George passing.

"I thought it was very sad. I would like to send my regards to George's family and friends.

"It is such a sad loss. He was very talented songwriter."