IT is 'virtual insanity' indeed but people enjoying a drink on Ipswich's waterfront found themselves rubbing shoulders with the rich and famous.

Lizzie Parry

IT is 'virtual insanity' indeed but people enjoying a drink on Ipswich's waterfront found themselves rubbing shoulders with the rich and famous.

Having left his trademark wacky hat and fast car at home, you could have been forgiven a double take as he queued next to you at the bar or passed you on the quayside.

The lead singer of Jamiroquai, Jay Kay was spotted enjoying drinks at Isaacs followed by dinner with two male friends at the newly opened Pizza Express on the Quay on Wednesday night.

The star's agent confirmed it was Jay Kay but because he was on a private visit they were unable to comment.

One eyewitness said he could not believe his eyes when he realised the star was sitting at the next table.

“I had to do a double take,” he said. “I wasn't sure if it was him to start with, without the crazy hat he is known for wearing he just looked like a normal guy.

“You definitely don't expect to see any famous faces in Pizza Express in Ipswich. He seemed to be enjoying himself though.”

A member of staff from Pizza Express, who wants to remain anonymous, said: “We were all really excited. Lots of the staff here are in their early 20s so he is of our era.

“He was lovely and very friendly and nice and so were his friends. It was quite busy and he was very patient. We just treated him like a normal customer but it was exciting to see him, especially in Ipswich.”

No stranger to the area the 39-year-old from Stretford has local links in the region - as a youngster he attended the independent prep school Holmwood House, near Colchester.

He has spent 159 weeks in the UK singles chart and 232 weeks in the album charts ensuring him worldwide acclaim.

Jamiroquai's unique sound has dominated the airwaves for over 15 years in which time the six-piece group have sold over 20 million albums.

Fact file: Jay Kay

Jay Kay's primary home is a 500-year-old mansion in Buckinghamshire, but he also has homes in London and Gairloch in Scotland.

Famous for his love of super cars the star owns several sports cars including a Ferrai Enzo, a Ferrai F40 and F50.

His love of speed has got him into trouble with police after he was caught driving at 111mph and 105mph on public roads, resulting in two separate bans.

He was recently awarded the 'fastest lap of 2008' on TopGear for their lap of a track in a reasonably priced car.

He has had several high profile relationships including Winona Ryder and Denise Van Outen.

The Sunday Times Rich List 2008 placed Jay Kay at joint 1,794 estimating his private fortune at �40 million.