Popstars and Pop Idol reject Darius Danesh has scored a number one hit with his first single, Colourblind.

Darius, who became a figure of ridicule during ITV's Popstars, took the top spot from fellow Pop Idol contestant Gareth Gates who had spent three weeks at the top.

I am over the moon that people like something that I've written

Darius Danesh

The Scottish singer beat off competition from Will Smith, P Diddy and Britney Spears.

George Michael, whose single Shoot the Dog gained widespread press coverage because it lampooned Tony Blair's relationship with George Bush, only reached number 12 in the chart.

Darius follows in the footsteps of Gates and Pop Idol winner Will Young.

'Treasure'

But the Scottish singer has decided to write his own material and had a dig at the cover versions which have brought Gates and Young success.

The singer said: "This is a moment I will treasure for the rest of my life.

"I am over the moon that people like something that I've written.

"Colourblind is the best way that I can thank the public for their support through Pop Idol, not by churning a cover song out off the back of the incredible success of the programme, but by going in on my own."

He said he hoped the song could put smiles on the faces of people.