People News

Michael Jackson memorabilia tour

Sep 22, 2009, 9:41 GMT

Michael Jackson's belongings are going on show in London.

A display of memorabilia and items owned by the late pop singer is being shipped from America to The O2 arena, where the 'Thriller' star was scheduled to perform his 50-date 'This Is It' residency, after his family gave their blessing to the exhibition.

A source said: "Negotiations have been going on for a long time. Everyone was keen to ensure disappointed fans who had tickets for his 'This Is It' concerts still get to enjoy part of him.

"Finally his family have given the go-ahead and are rooting through the treasure troves to dig out special artifacts."

Items expected to go on display include some of the star's iconic stage outfits and nymph statues from the garden of his Neverland home.

Following the exhibition in London, the collection will be displayed at various venues throughout the world before being housed in a permanent museum.

The singer's father Joe said: "Michael's legacy will live on."

Full details of the exhibition, including dates and ticket prices, are expected to be announced this week.

While fans will get the chance to see at the singer's possessions, residents in Arkansas can get even closer by riding the Ferris Wheel he used to have at Neverland.

Archway Amusements Corporation bought the ride, which was installed at Michael's Californian ranch in 1990, last year and it travels fairgrounds around America's Mid-West region.

Theresa Noerper, co-owner of Archway Amusements Corp., said: "We ourselves really didn't advertise it. When he died, it kind of blew up. There's no keeping secrets then.

"Fans come to take pictures, a couple tears and everybody likes to ride it."

The ride will next be used at the Northeast Arkansas District Fair in Jonesboro this week, while a Lolli Swing also from the singer's garden is being used at the Central Washington State Fair, one of five rides bought from Neverland by California's Butlers Amusements.