Royal Variety in Salford

Performances from Pixie Lott and Nicole Scherzinger...

10:41 07 December 2011

Salford had a regal treat on Monday evening when the Royal Variety Performance was held at The Lowry in Salford Quays.

For the first time in the 99-year history of the show, the performance was not attended by either the Queen or the Prince of Wales., with Princess Anne representing the Royal family this year.

Comedian Peter Kay hosted the night, which, despite being plagued by technical difficulties, was still enjoyed by the crowd and performers.

Among the performers was ex-Pussycat Doll, Nicole Scherzinger, who sang Phantom of the Opera at the request of Andrew Lloyd-Webber himself.

Earlier in the day, Scherzinger admitted that she had thought he was a member of the Royal family. When asked if she had ever met a Royal she said:

"No, IÂ’ve met Lord Lloyd-Webber. He is a Lord isnÂ’t he? Fart, I think I called him Sir earlier on."

Teen popstar Pixie Lott also performed for the crowd, opting to wear a very un-royal outfit of very short hot pants, whilst X factor winner Leona Lewis displayed her talent on the stage and showed what can become of X Factor stars.

Classical singers Hayley Westenra and Rolando Villazon also performed together in a stunning duet.

Other performers included Cee Lo Green, Tony Bennett and Tim Minchin.