The recent success of The Darkness and their high-profile exposure on television and the radio airwaves has brought back memories of Evening Star sub-editor Wayne Savage's school days.

He was at high school with the glam rock band's frontman Justin Hawkins - and although the two couldn't be classed as great mates, Wayne can still recall a tale or two about the flamboyant performer.

Wayne told Star diarist Matthew Tacket: "He was flamboyant. And he was never going to do a typical nine to five job, that was clear."

Justin also managed to get invited to Wayne's 18th birthday party - although Wayne points out this had less to do with their own friendship than the fact one of his mates fancied Justin.

But unfortunately things didn't quite go to plan.

He said: "She spent the night waiting for Justin to turn up - eyes on the door.

"He finally turned up… with another girl. She was heartbroken."

There was also an alleged incident at the same party in which Justin had an electrifying encounter with a hand dryer but those rumours remained unsubstantiated - although Wayne points out Justin did leave the party looking a little pale.

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