THE spotlight is back on the Padiham Pop Idol wannabe to find his own piece of fame after winning a part in a new West End musical.

Andrew Derbyshire, 19, of Green Street, made it through to the final 50 in ITV's search for a music star with his rendition of Bette Midler's 'Wind Beneath My Wings'.

He won praise from the judges but failed to impress the voting nation.

But his knockbacks haven't put him off and he has landed a role in the West End production 'We Will Rock You'.

He has a 12-month professional contract as understudy for the leading role played by former Young Ones star Nigel Planer.

The new musical science fiction comedy by Ben Elton. produced by Robert De Niro, is set in the future and features more than 30 Queen songs.

Andrew's mum Deborah said she believes he has what it takes to go all the way after receiving promising compliments from former Queen guitarist Brian May.

Deborah said: "Andrew was encouraged to go for the audition by Mike Dixon the Pop Idol pianist who is the director of We Will Rock You.

"Andrew got through a number of rounds with tough competition all the way but the judges were really impressed with his singing ability which got him the role.

"He was especially excited when Brian May praised his voice, saying it was unique and very powerful."

Andrew is the youngest person in the show and had to leave his three-year place at the Artshead performing Arts College in London to take part in the musical.

Deborah said: "Andrew has the mind and presence needed to succeed in this kind of environment.

"He had to give up the place which he had been working hard at for two years because this was an opportunity he could not afford to miss." Since Pop Idol, Andrew has set up home in Covent Garden, London, to get ready for the premier night.

Deborah added: "He is working from about lunchtime till 11pm so he has little time for anything else but this is what he wants to do and we all support him one hundred per cent of the way.

"His dad David and I are going to the opening night and then will be rubbing shoulders with all the celebs at an after show party at a famous London night spot."

The show opens on May 14 but there will be preview performances. Box office number is 020 7439 2333.