DISGRACELAND Mar 25 2004 Don't be cruel, villagers tell Elvis empire By Craig Walker VILLAGERS were shaken and rattled yesterday by threats over their Elvis history. But they are vowing not to roll over after the mega-rich Presley empire tried to warn them off. Tiny Lonmay only discovered its links to Elvis's ancestors this week. But yesterday, within 48 hours of the Aberdeenshire village celebrating its new-found fame, the money men in America were demanding their cut of any money the villagers make from the connection. Elvis Presley Enterprises Inc, who control rights to the rock legend's image from his former home, Graceland, in Memphis, Tennessee, said they objected to unauthorised use of their trademarks. But media director Todd Morgan added: 'We are always open to hearing proposals from any entity seeking the appropriate and necessary permissions.' Last night, villagers were amazed at the huge corporation's stance. The Ban Car Hotel has already discussed plans to commemorate Elvis, possibly by changing its name to Heartbreak Hotel or renaming one of its dining areas. Barman Michael Stewart, 37, said: 'I can't believe Graceland are coming out with this already. The place has been buzzing since we found out Elvis is linked to the area. 'Everyone thinks it's great and we are planning to hold some kind of celebration for his birthday. 'We're just having a bit of fun. I think the bosses at Graceland are getting a little bit carried away.' Banff and Buchan MSP Stewart Stevenson slammed Graceland's 'heavy- handed' tactics. He said: 'They should be flattered to be linked to Scotland. I am sure whatever they try to do, we will see people coming from America and all over the world to see where the great man came from. 'This is a gross over- reaction and if Graceland have a look at the situation they will realise we are a little bit off taking over their mantle. 'However, this might just spur on the couple of dozen residents of Lonmay to do just that.' The row started when Scots author Allan Morrison claimed this week he had traced Elvis's ancestors back to Lonmay and tourism bosses predicted a surge in visitors to the village.