SINGER Robert Sharples is set to emerge from Gareth Gates' shadow -- two years after finishing second to him in a TV talent show.

A year before the spikey-haired star hit the big time on ITV's Pop Idol he was competing for the limelight on BBC 1's Steps to the Stars, hosted by Steps members H and Claire.

And although Robert, of Whitehall Park, Darwen, finished runner-up, he hasn't let the disappointment ruin his dream.

The 18-year-old already has a tour lined up with his pop trio, FY8, and has performed alongside a string of famous names ranging from chart toppers Blue to Liberty X

He's even supported his former rival Gareth.

Robert said: "Gareth was a nice guy when I met him, really friendly. He won because he's a very good performer.

"But we've supported Blue, Gareth and Liberty X. Things have gone well for us and it's fantastic, a great boost."

The group, which formed last year, has enlisted the help of top international song-writers Michelle Vice, who worked with Backstreet Boys, and Mark Haley who has helped boy band Blue.

And as tribute to their success the group will take their place on the CD:UK tour in April.

Robert, born and bred in Darwen, has to take time out from his studies at Preston College where he is working on a three-year Professional Dance and Teachers of Dance Course.

He said: "The teachers know I'm doing what I have to do to get where I want to go. It's a great course. Dancing is something I love. If the dream ended tomorrow I'd go into teaching dance.

"Touring gets quite tiring but we love it. I miss Darwen though, and my family and friends. I love living here, it's lovely."

Manager Andrew Falconer said the appeal of the trio lies in their down-to-earth nature.

He said: "They are one of the best boy bands out there at the moment. They love what they do and they really appreciate their fans and that's very important.

"The really want to conquer the pop world and they have such a unique energising R&B sound, I think they'll be a huge hit."

Robert gave a last piece of advice to potential pop idols.

He said: "We're just going for it. We're lucky because everyone close to us supports us. To people who want to do the same, I'd say go for it and never give up. Always believe in yourself."