Lee Dawson calls Donna Presley Early "an absolutely fantastic friend"

Elvis died 26 years ago on Saturday - on 16 August 1977.

And while the 25th anniversary of his death was widely celebrated last year, Donna Presley Early's visit should make this year's anniversary more memorable for Lee Dawson.

Mr Dawson struck up what might be seen as an unlikely friendship with his hero's cousin over the internet.

He now says she and her husband have become firm friends of him and his family - and they are staying in Brighton for five days.

'A real coup'

Mrs Presley Early is the daughter of Nash Presley, Elvis' aunt, who was nine years old when the famous singer was born, and who grew up living next door to him.

Mrs Presley Early herself spent her teenage years working on Elvis' Graceland estate.

She will be performing in Brighton on Friday night in a commemorative show called Elvis 26, taking place at the Hilton Metropole Hotel, to raise money for a local children's hospice.

Elvis Presley never visited England during his lifetime

She also took part in a book signing at a city-centre shop on Thursday.

She said: "I think it's lovely here. I love the pier and the boardwalk, with the carnival atmosphere, I think that's delightful.

"All the people have been so wonderful and friendly and it's just a beautiful city, a lovely place to visit."

Mr Dawson, who was only five when Elvis died, is far from all shook up at getting a visit from his hero's cousin, as he has met her before.

He said: "On a personal note it's great to have my friends here - Donna and Buddy are absolutely fantastic friends to me and Lana.