Chart-topper Daniel Bedingfield believes his childhood in Lewisham is the secret behind his sudden success.

He believes the multicultural environment in the borough aided his music, and helped him to reach number one in the singles' chart last weekend.

He said: "Growing up in Lewisham was an experience that really formed my music and my influences. Living around people from lots of different backgrounds brought me into contact with a whole load of sounds, and I am really thankful for that."

Daniel, who celebrated his 22nd birthday on Monday, was living with his parents when he crafted the Ayia Napa favourite "Gotta Get Through This", after breaking up with his girlfriend.

"She really likes the song. She's in Switzerland at the moment. It didn't work out but she's an inspiration to a lot of songs a lovely, lovely girl." he said.

Penniless Daniel had to spend this summer in England while the tune caught on around Europe, but after signing the song to the Relentless record label for £40,000, he's hoping for some more exciting holidays next year.

December 6, 2001 13:34