Gareth Gates has been announced as Lee Meads replacement in the West End production of Joseph and his Technicolour Dreamcoat.

The former Pop Idol contestant has revealed that he is thrilled to have landed the role as he credits that particular show with his decision to become a singer.

“I have a lot to thank Joseph And The Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat for as it is the reason I first started singing, after being chosen to play the lead in a school production when I was eight years old,” he said.

“Ever since then it’s been a dream of mine to appear in a West End musical. I am really honoured to be appearing at the Adelphi, stepping into that famous coat, and really can’t wait to get stuck in!”