[Graeme]

Pop Idol's Gareth asks for directions to overcome stammer

Pop Idol favourite Gareth Gates has been spending his afternoons asking for directions around London.

Gareth's speech therapist has set him the exercise to help overcome his stammer.

The joint favourite to win the show suffered a setback in his speech a few weeks ago.

He said: "'My coach Michael Hay came to London to help me with my speech because I've been having problems recently. He made me go into the street and ask people for directions.

"It's a really hard thing for me to do, but it really helps build my confidence.

"I'm working hard on my speech now. It is possible to overcome a stammer and I want to show people that. I've had lots of letters from people with speech problems who have told me I have inspired them."

Found at -

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Pop Idol's Gareth Gates quits school

Pop Idol favourite Gareth Gates has quit college.

The singer has found it impossible to study for his A Levels as well as compete on the ITV show.

School principal John Lewis has backed Gareth's move, predicting he will be a millionaire within a year.

Mr Lewis, head of Dixons City Technology College in Bradford, told The Bradford Telegraph And Argus: "I think he will walk this contest, and it means that in 12 months' time he will be a millionaire.

"I had to countersign his passport application last week. He didn't have one, and I think that is an indication of the ordinary family he comes from. He will now be whisked off to various exotic places.

"The last advice I gave him was 'don't change.' As well as his voice, it's his personality that has got him this far. He is a very nice lad and what you see is what you get. I've had calls from tabloid newspapers asking me to dish the dirt on him, but there isn't any."

Mr Lewis says he is full of admiration for the way Gareth is trying to beat his stammer.

"When he's at ease with his friends he can chat away, but put him under pressure it's the opposite. That's what makes his current achievement so incredible.

"It is a gift from God - he can sing like a bird."

Gareth joins Darius Danesh and William Young for the penultimate night of Pop Idol this Saturday.

found at -

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