Pop Idol contestant Gareth Gates has quit school, his head teacher confirmed today.

And John Lewis, principal at Dixons City Technology College, predicted the singing star would be a millionaire within a year.

Although he managed to combine his A-level studies with his increasing fame last term, filming commitments for the Pop Idol series prompted him to quit the West Bowling college.

As one of the last three in the national talent search, he is the bookies' favourite to win, after stealing the nation's heart through his matinee-idol looks and awkward stammer.

Mr Lewis - who, along with his wife, has been voting for Gareth in the weekly telephone polls - is confident he will be pronounced the winner a week tomorrow and be set up for life.

"I think he will walk this contest, and it means that in 12 months' time he will be a millionaire," said Mr Lewis.

"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."

Thrilled staff and students have been following his weekly appearances on the knockout talent show.

And the school has received a letter from Gareth, who is grateful for their backing.

"I am enjoying this wonderful experience of Pop Idol and it's a dream to be living part of my dream," he has written.

"I speak to my sister Nicola often and she keeps me up to date with news from the college. I do have a keen interest with what's happening with you all. I hope to see you soon - you are all often in my thoughts and prayers and I miss seeing you. I send best wishes to you all, and hope 2002 is a successful year for all of us."

Last week he invited six teachers from Dixons to join the studio audience. So many wanted to go, names had to be pulled from a hat, said Mr Lewis.

The proud principal recalls hearing Gareth sing for the first time while he was a chorister at Bradford Cathedral, seven years ago. He is full of admiration for the brave way Gareth is trying to combat 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."

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

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