Elton John has pledged to give up curries in a bid to lose weight in time for his 60th birthday. The legendary singer is determined to embark on a fitness routine, and forgo his favourite meal and all junk food, so he will be trim for his big day on March 25. He explains, “I’ve let myself go recently so I’m going on a diet and making an effort to do more exercise so that I’m looking good for my birthday.” Elton, who is famed for his lavish bashes, has revealed he and his partner David Furnish are planning something extra-special for the big day. However, the `Rocket oan’ singer is refusing to give much away about the party. He hints, “We have a trick up our sleeves for my 60th celebrations which we have been planning for two years. I’m really excited about it. The only thing I am going to tell you about it is that it has a New York theme.” [10 January 2007]