MUSIC: Not making TV finals is not the end of their world

POP Idol fever has gripped the nation for the last two months but what has happened to the young Bromley hopefuls who fell at the penultimate hurdle.

For one, drama school beckons while for others its the lure of the small screen, the stage and even the world of modelling.

Chris Guzzard, 22, of Mead Way, Bromley, is being screen tested for a job as a presenter on the Disney Channel, based in Hammersmith.

He has also received CDs from producers wanting him to sing on their labels.

He said: "I am looking forward to trying out for the Disney Channel.

"I have not yet received anything from producers which I want to do, although I find it very flattering whenever I receive a CD."

Davina Perera, 24, from Orpington, was interviewed on Channel Four's early morning programme The Big Breakfast.

She is currently rehearsing for a part in Peter Pan at the Theatre Royal, Brighton, which will be running until January 2002.

In March 2002, she will start rehearsals for a new musical at the Victoria Apollo Theatre called Bombay Dreams, which is taking over from Starlight Express. It will run to May 2003.

She said: "The best part of getting onto Pop Idols was having the opportunity to work with vocal coaches which really helped."

Penge's Tania Foster, 17, of Blean Grove, is concentrating on her studies at the Brit School for Drama and Arts, in Selhurst.

She said: "My TV appearance has made me more ambitious and confident.

"I have my whole life ahead of me and will finish my schooling before I think about my career."

Petts Wood's Carla Winters, 22, of Crofton Lane, appeared topless on Page Three of the Sun after showing interest in glamour modelling while on Pop Idol.

She has signed up to a modelling agency.

She is also looking into two recording contracts and been contacted by Gary Barnacle, who was the saxophone player for Level 42. She is still playing with her band The Choice.

She said: "I would like to have a go at presenting but at the moment I am concentrating on both my modelling and singing careers."

December 7, 2001 13:00

John Higginson