There won't be any sacrifice when Sir Elton John comes to Oxford the Rocket Man insists on the best of everything.

The Oxford Mail has been given a snapshot of life on tour with Sir Elton, who is due to perform at the Kassam Stadium on Saturday, June 24.

From flowers in his dressing room to experts tuning his piano 24 times, the multi-millionaire singer-song-writer has it all.

His concert at the Kassam will be one of 19 European shows he performs this summer. More than 14,000 tickets have already been sold for the Oxford date.

Promoters Marshall Arts gave the Oxford Mail an insight into life on the road with Sir Elton.

Spokesman Ben Martin said: "Elton takes 40 to 50 costumes on tour with him and always requests flowers in his dressing room."

And when it comes to pre-performance requirements, it's soft drinks all the way. His dressing room is always stocked with his favourites.

Moments before he goes on stage, he carries out a series of vocal exercises. Once the show's over, he goes straight home.

Mr Martin also gave us a glimpse of how things work backstage.

There is a 37-strong crew, but an extra 60 staff are brought in to help erect the stage. A 35-tonne crane is used to put up the stage, which will be driven to the Kassam in six trucks.

On stage, there will be 37 microphones, 100 moving lights and 8,950 metres of cables.

Mr Martin said: "The team works ever so hard. This gives an idea of the amount of work that goes into putting the show together.

"Elton will be on stage for a total of 42 hours throughout the tour and will travel more than 7,000 miles.

"The Oxford gig promises to be a great one and will be a wonderful opportunity to see Elton perform."

Tickets for the show are this week going to print and will be sent out after Easter.

Welsh 1970s-inspired band The Storys, who have previously performed alongside Tom Jones, have been signed to support Sir Elton.

For tickets, call 0870 161 2123, 0871 230 2610 or 0870 4445556.