Frail but determined,

this week Phil Collins took to the stage in what he has confirmed will be his final tour.

Some 56 years since he first stepped into the limelight, spine and nerve damage have left the Genesis frontman unable to drum, because he can no longer feel the sticks. Nonetheless, he is embarking with his bandmates on a last tour of the UK and america.

after years of ill health, the 70-year-old leans on a cane to stand and sits on stage. However, in a display of grit, he stood for an ovation from the audience as the first tour date ended on Monday.

So, how has he endured against all odds? ALISON BOSHOFF takes a look at his highs and lows...

1965: Born in Chiswick, London, Collins makes his professional stage debut in a West End production of Oliver Twist as the Artful Dodger

1975: Lead singer Peter Gabriel quits. Collins steps into the breach, singing on their next album A Trick of the Tail, which is a huge hit

1970: His genesis as a drummer began aged five with a toy drum kit — now he joins Genesis as drummer and vocalist