WILL Young's sold out show at the Villa Marina in Douglas in July proved what a charming star he is, an isleofman.com correspondent reported.

The performance showed that Will had moved beyond the Pop Idol TV show that launched his career several years ago.

Our correspondent said: "Will Young rewarded the packed Villa with a string of his greatest hits and a truly energetic performance. Pop Idol, chart stardom, theatre work and movie appearances have helped the singer hone his craft.

"He commanded the stage, bringing an infectious enthusiasm and a beaming smile which showed what looked like genuine delight at the welcome he received - it was either genuine pleasure or he really is a good actor.

"The set featured his biggest hits - Switch it On, Changes, Friday's Child, Who Am I, Let It Go, Grace, Your Game and so on - showing this is one product of the reality show format who has managed to move beyond the TV show and become a star in their own right.

"He cannot, of course, ignore the fact that he came to public prominence thanks to Pop Idol and there was a nod to the show with his rendition of The Doors' classic Light My Fire, the song which helped make him a genuine contender on the programme.

"Some may have been disappointed not to hear Evergreen or Anything is Possible - the "winner's" songs and Will's first release, which became the fastest selling debut single in UK chart history - but Will Young has moved beyond the show which launched him and has much more to offer than generic, chart-friendly pop.

"His remarkable voice was near faultless throughout the show, perhaps helped by clever pacing of the slow and fast numbers, the spacing out of the powerhouse tracks and the interaction with the audience."