Kent's Michael Jackson impersonators have paid tribute to the popstar - who died in Los Angeles last night.

Sheppey's very own Michael Jackson says he is “shocked” and “devastated” at the death of the King of Pop.

But in the spirit of showmanship, tribute act Ben Bowman, plans to go ahead with a performance tonight.

The 23-year-old of Wing Road, Leysdown, who has been a fan for as long as he can remember, said he cried when he heard last night his hero had died.

But although distraught he has vowed not to cancel a performance in Chislehurst tonight.

He said: “My agent called me, and then my brother called me. I just did not believe it until I got home and saw the news, and the words on the screen that said Michael Jackson had died. I burst into tears and sobbed.

“But I am going to go ahead with a show I have booked tonight. It will be hard but I am going to dedicate it to Michael. My act has even more of a purpose now.”

Mr Bowman, who has been doing a tribute act to the star for almost five years said he was pleased the national media are concentrating on Michael Jackson’s music in the wake of his death.

Listeners have flooded kmfm's airwaves with messages of sympathy after the passing of Michael Jackson.

Audio: Hear Rhona Pinkerton's montage of listeners' messages

kmfm is paying tribute to the singer by playing the King of Pop's songs throughout the day and reading out tributes from fans. To get in touch with your messages of condolence, just text the word "kmfm" then leave a space before writing your message and then send it to 81800.

Also, from 7pm on kmfm, the Essential Eighties programme is playing a half-hour tribute. Listen in to your local frequency.

He said: “There has been so much that has been negative about him in the past, now it seems the press are concentrating on his music and the legend that he was, and that can only be a good thing.

“The fact that he has died has overshadowed the negativity."

Mr Bowman said he would keep on performing as Michael Jackson and was upset that he never got to meet the superstar.

He added: “I am going to do my bit to keep the legend alive and ask people to celebrate the life and music of a man who truly was a phenomenon.”

Meanwhile, in Tenterden, another tribute act has paid homage to the singing legend.

John Clayton, who helped organise a tribute concert at the Raja of Kent restaurant featuring tribute performer Navi on Wednesday, said: "Many regard Navi as probably the best of the UK Jackson tributes.

"He has worked extensively with Michael Jackson and was sometimes used as a decoy by the great man.

"Navi was also present at the press launch for the concert announcements at London’s O2."

The Essex-based performer previously performed at the Maidstone Raja of Kent venue and has been rebooked by owner Razulkabir Raja for his St Michael’s venue.

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