THE man dubbed the "Barry White of bingo" has disappointed an army of female fans by announcing his official retirement.

Maurice Hume has become quite a celebrity at clubs across the country over the years, thanks to his rich, deep voice.

The 65-year-old works at Gala Bingo, in Darlington, but his calls are relayed to clubs nationwide. He receives regular fan mail and requests for signed autographs.

But last night, a rather bashful Maurice revealed that some might be left rather disappointed if they saw the man behind the booming voice.

"Some people seem to think I'm a 6ft 5in black stud because all they hear is my voice.

"These women from the West Midlands were even ringing up to speak to me. I kept telling them I was just an old man, but they said they loved the voice.

"People call me the Barry White of bingo."

Maurice, who lives in Darlington and started his professional career at the Skinnergate club in 1984, has called the numbers for £100,000 winners.

Yesterday, he celebrated his retirement with staff and customers. He later joined his wife Maureen, family and friends at a second party at the Amalgamated Society of Engineers club in Northgate, Darlington, where he started as a volunteer bingo caller in 1973.

"I enjoy calling bingo, I like winding the women up, it's one of the perks of the job," he said.

"Not everyone can get away with it, but I can."