Sir Tom Jones, 80, reveals he’s had the coronavirus jab and calls it ‘the real deal’

SIR Tom Jones has opened up about having the coronavirus vaccine and dubbed it the "the real deal".

The 80-year-old singer chatted about the jab on Jools Holland's Annual Hootennany show on New Year's Eve, joking it was the only perk of his age.

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After his live performance, Sir Tom revealed: "I've had the jab already. That's one good thing about being 80, you're first in line for the jab.

He continued: "It was fine - it was just like getting the flu jab," assuring Jools that "it wasn't a black market one, it was the real deal."

Now protected against the virus, the Welshman said he was feeling bright about 2021, especially as he's got new music on the way.

"I recorded an album just before lockdown at the beginning of the year," he said. "During lockdown, we've been mixing it and putting it together."

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Adding it was due to be out this year, Sir Tom concluded: "That's what I'll be looking forward to."

The singing legend is just one of many other stars who have announced they've received the vaccination.

Sir Ian McKellen, 81, Michael Eavis, 85, Lionel Blair, 92, and Marty Wilde, 81, are among the growing list of names.

After getting the jab last December, Sir Ian said he felt "euphoric" and encouraged others to "do their bit" for society.

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He said: "Anyone who has lived as long as I have is alive because they have had previous vaccinations.

'The take-up amongst the older generation will be 100 per cent - it ought to be – because you're having it not just for yourself but for people who you are close to – you're doing your bit for society. 

"Of course, it's painless… it's convenient, and getting in touch and meeting NHS staff and saying thank you to them for how hard they've been working is a bonus.

"I would have no hesitation in recommending it to anyone. I feel very lucky to have had the vaccine."