PADIHAM's pop wannabe Andrew Derbyshire has rocked his way to the top of a popular London show by stepping in for the lead role.

Andrew, 20, was rejected from last year's ITV hit Pop Idol show after making it to the last 50 in the programme's search for a star.

But now he is set to take the lead role of Gallileo for the second time in Ben Elton's 'We Will Rock You' show at the Dominion Theatre, London.

Andrew, whose family live in Green Street, Padiham, has been given support from the likes of fellow Pop Idol reject Rick Waller.

His family have also travelled to the capital to see him in the show several times and are looking forward to making the trip in November to see him take the lead.

Andrew's proud dad David said: "We are overwhelmed with success of the show. It is completely booked up now on a Saturday until Christmas. It is unbelievable.

"Andrew has worked very hard to be given the opportunity to take on the lead role, it has been hard work but it has paid off.

"Andrew met Fergie when she came back stage to congratulate him on his performance. he loves it all."

Andrew was given a 12-month contract, which runs out in April, but his dad says great things are in the pipeline for his starry eyed son.

He added: "We are not sure yet if his contact will be renewed in April. He hopes it will be but even if it isn't then there are a lot of positive things that have come from him doing this show.

"He has met a lot of famous and successful people. Both Brian May and Ben Elton have praised him and told him he has an outstanding voice.

"This show really has given Andrew a good grounding and has allowed him to make a name for himself which is fantastic."