Jeanette Boardman, from Crown Grove, Leigh, is among the world's biggest fans of the king of pop and has been featured in Century Radio's birthday celebrations for the US singer.


As Jackson and other pop legend Madonna turn 50, Century Radio have been toasting their special days with a Bank Holiday weekend extravaganza filled with their music.
As well as playing tracks from both illustrious artists, the weekend has been peppered with recollections from people, such as Jeanette, who have met either the birthday boy or girl.


Jeanette, 20, first fell head over heels for the moonwalking magician 10 years ago.

She said: "I remember hearing I'll Be There by The Jackson Five on the radio and instantly falling in love with it.
"I wanted to hear more of Michael's music and watch his videos.
"I then started collecting merchandise including books, posters, albums, singles, bed spreads, and brand perfumes.
"I still have a stick of chewing gum from 1985 which came with a packet of Michael stickers."


In 2004 Jeanette travelled to London to meet her hero and waited for hours outside the Dorchester Hotel, where Michael was staying.
On that occasion she missed out as Michael walked past the gathered crowd of screaming fans.
But a year later, outside the same hotel, she finally managed to meet him.
She said: "He stopped to speak to me and gave me a massive hug.
"It was an overwhelming experience and I went on to meet him again at Earls Court in 2006."


Jeanette even has two tattoos of Michael.
The first one she had is of his name on her left arm and the other, at the base of her back, is Jeanette's own design of Michael's eyes.
His children are seen within the left eye and Michael is seen dancing in the right.
"My boyfriend thinks I'm crazy," said Jeanette.
"But I could never have a partner, or friends, who don't like Michael Jackson.
"I can't have anyone say a bad thing about Michael while I'm around.

"In recent years there has been a lot of controversy about Michael's behaviour.
"But I believe he is totally misunderstood.
"He is a caring, loving person and if I ever had children I'd feel comfortable with Michael looking after them."