A Bradford man who suffers from an aggressive form of Multiple Sclerosis is to appear on Stars in Their Eyes.

Tony Rodgers, who lives in Holme Wood, said appearing on the popular award-winning show was extra special because the debilitating illness, diagnosed two years ago, will eventually rob him of his mobility.

He said: "One day I am going to lose the use of my legs. At least now I can say I appeared on TV, even if it is just the once."

The 34-year-old, who will be appearing as singer/songwriter Ray Davies from the Kinks on this Saturday's show, needed special help during the recording of the show at Granada's Manchester studios last December.

He said: "When I had finished chatting to Matthew Kelly, filming had to halt as I needed help to walk through the door.

''But the people on the show were very considerate and appointed someone to help me round.".

Tony is hoping his performance will stun viewers with an amazing transformation and vocal talent.

He admits he knew nothing about the Kinks front-man until he read his book and discovered striking similarities.

"He is a Londoner who married a girl from Bradford and I am from east London and married a girl from Bradford five years ago," said Tony. "I also have a gap in my teeth like his."

The talented impersonator, who will perform Sunny Afternoon, began singing at the age of 11 after listening to the Beatles and admits he would have preferred to be appearing as John Lennon or Paul McCartney.

"Most people think I am better doing Ray Davies and even though I didn't win, just appearing on the show felt like winning.

''The other contestants were brilliant and there were no egos at all."

Tony remained tight-lipped over the eventual winner but appearing on the show with him is a Boy George soundalike and Nottingham man, 24-year-old Joseph Hall, who will appear as solo artist Sisqo.