SINGER Joe McElderry made his debut at The Rusland Pool Hotel when he stayed after playing a concert in Ulverston.

The Geordie star shocked the owners when he unexpectedly dropped in and asked for a room at the Haverthwaite hotel.

Rachel Pound, Manager and Owner, said: “He was lovely and really down to earth.

“It was late but I made him a steak and ale pie especially. “He stayed up for a few drinks and we showed him how to pull a pint.”

Ms Pound already had tickets for the packed out performance at the Coronation Hall in Ulverston and had no idea that she would soon be playing host to the celebrity.

“I’ve never seen him and it was fabulous, he sang ballads, classical songs and then the second half was all pop music.

“People were getting up and dancing with him,” continued Ms Pound.

She said someone had mentioned to her at the venue that he needed a place to stay, and so she was able to pre warn her staff.

Ms Pound added that Joe stayed for breakfast and was happy to pose for pictures outside the hotel before leaving at about 11.30am.