Mike Batt’s long and varied career is celebrated on his new Penultimate Collection double album, with 35 tracks highlighting his work as performer, composer, arranger and key British musical figure — but especially as performer. Not only does it feature Batt’s original solo material — including his international solo hits — but also his own versions of songs he wrote for other artists. The Closest Thing To Crazy, Bright Eyes, A Winter’s Tale, Caravan Song and I Feel Like Buddy Holly are given his own distinctive treatment, alongside his orchestral works, and contributions from Colin Blunstone, Bonnie Tyler and Family’s Roger Chapman.

The collection features his work from the classic feelgood pop of Summertime City, his number four hit from 1975, through his successful Wombles hits and orchestral pieces, to two brand new recordings.

His long-term passion project, the musical The Hunting of the Snark, is represented by three songs, featuring the guitar of George Harrison, and the voices of Sir John Hurt and Sir John Gielgud.

We’ve not played this; Mr Batt deserves a free plug after his long career.