A CHARTERED surveyor from Hatfield is leading a dual existence. By day he fulfils his normal working life, yet as night commences he transforms into The Romantic Tenor! And now Neil Simon is releasing his first CD – Neil Simon The Romantic Tenor sings Ita

A CHARTERED surveyor from Hatfield is leading a dual existence.

By day he fulfils his normal working life, yet as night commences he transforms into The Romantic Tenor!

And now Neil Simon is releasing his first CD - Neil Simon The Romantic Tenor sings Italian Love Songs.

He told the WHT it is a collection of a cover of songs previously performed by stars such as Pavarotti and Il Divo, including O sole mio, Malia and Santa lucia luntana.

He said: "I take inspiration from many of the great Italian performers.

"Normally I sing at parties at nights out for women. I really enjoy serenading, it's a big passion of mine and to be honest I now prefer it to being a chartered surveyor, so I felt it was about time I made a CD."

The Ryde man started his double life, when his wife Susan Heaton Wright, a professional singer, introduced him to her singing teacher, renowned soprano Marie McLaughlin.

And within a no time at all he was singing with touring opera companies, including Opera Live and London Opera Productions where he became a director.

Neil hit the height of his career when the original composer of the words to the 'Just one Cornetto' advert - to the tune of O sole mio - invited him to record a new version for his wedding anniversary celebrations.

To book Neil for performances visit www.theromantictenor.com or call him on 07739 475935.

* The WHT has a copy of Neil's CD to be won. To enter, just answer this simple question: What nationality of hits is Neil covering on his new CD?

a) Spanish

b) French

c) Italian

Send your answers, with your name, address and daytime contact number, to: Neil Simon competition, Welwyn & Hatfield Times, 31a Howardsgate, WGC, Herts AL8 6AP.

You can also email whtimes@archant.co.uk

Closing date is noon on Wednesday, December 17.

Normal Archant rules apply.