80s Strikeback – The Ultimate Party at Odsal Stadium

A sea of crimped hair, retro tee-shirts and fluorescent legwarmers and rara skirts by those faithful to the 1980s kicked off proceedings at the Bradford Bulls stadium.

No, it wasn’t a rugby match in fancy dress at Odsal, but the 80s Strikeback – The Ultimate Party on Saturday night.

And the Ultimate Party it was.

Sonia, Altered Images, Go West, Real Thing, The Fine Young Cannibals, Belinda Carlisle and Rick Astley were all on the bill for a nostalgia packed night.

And special mention to the Rewind Allstar Band, who provided the brilliant backdrop for each singer, despite their very different musical styles.

The sun was shining, the crowd in good spirits and the pitch absolutely packed with about 8,000 revellers.

Sonia and Altered Images got the crowd even more fired up, before the hugely talented Go West came on stage. They sang a few tracks, including massive hit, King of Wishful Thinking, Call me and We Close Our Eyes, but the crowd absolutely loved their take on Sex on Fire by the Kings of Leon.

To see people in their 30s and 40s dancing in the stands, like they were back in a nightclub with disco balls and tiny dance floors made me realise the 80s revival is such a success because it transports people back to the days.

Last but not least, Rick Astley came on stage following a set by Belinda Carlisle and kept the crowd going despite the temperature plunging as night fell.

Bring on the 90s Strikeback. Now that would be an Ultimate Party!