Stage finally set for the opening of Joe Longthorne MBE Museum in the late star's favourite theatre at North Pier, Blackpool

And this weekend fans, family and showbiz friends will gather to celebrate the life and works of the of the legendary entertainer Joe Longthorne MBE when the doors officially open on the new museum, dedicated to his memory at the North Pier, Blackpool.

The late singer, known as Blackpool's 'adopted son' died at home in the resort last August.

Invited VIP guests and a party of Joe’s fan club will be given the first socially distanced viewing of the Joe Longthorne MBE Museum within the pier theatre, now renamed after the star, later today, with doors opening to the public tomorrow from 10am.

Inside the former theatre tearoom turned exhibition space now homes some of Joe’s treasured memorabilia from his illustrious showbiz career, his MBE honour to his gold disks, stage suits and his much loved piano, once owned and played by American superstar singer, writer and producer Stevie Wonder.

Adorning the walls tributes, messages and anecdotes of fellow entertainers, sportstars and pals from across the world, Engelbert Humperdinck, Bob Hope to Geoff Hurst - Jimmy Tarbuck and Bruce Forsyth.

Jamie Moran, Joe’s widower and his partner of more than 21 years, said it was a fitting tribute and expressed his special thanks to the Sedgewick family, owners of the pier and Joe’s most loyal fans for helping bring the project together.

He said: “It was Peter Sedgewick who had first expressed his plan and wish to rename the theatre in tribute to Joe

“Without the Sedgewicks it would never have happened, the fan club have been fantastic.They have all been amazing and to see it all come together is very special.

“It’s very fitting for Joe and just how I imagined it. I can’t thank them enough really.

“Joe would love it, he would be honoured - everyone on theose walls are personal friends of Joe.

“It’s free admission, a coffee and tea bar and it’s just to share for people to see, enjoy in Joe’s memory and at North Pier, no finer place. It was Joe's favourite stage."