Terfel could be the first Top 10 baritone

The Welsh singer's album, simply called Bryn, mixes a range of well-known songs from operas such as Carmen with pop tunes like My Heart Will Go On.

While other classical singers such as Pavarotti have previously featured in the Top 10, no baritones have as yet made it.

But with Terfel outselling new releases in the pop field from Robbie Williams and Sophie Ellis-Bextor, he is on target for good news on Sunday.

Terfel said of the news: "Everyone knows about tenors, but baritones go deeper," Tefel said when he heard the news.

"I'm delighted about the chart success, and if Wales can win the Rugby World Cup, it'll make my year."

'Mainstream'

"Tenors have always been stars. Now for the first time a baritone has crossed into the mainstream."

Tefel, who is considered by many to be the finest baritone of his generation, is currently performing in Austria with the Vienna State Opera.

Pop singer Louise will perform at Pudsey in the Park

Terfel's record label boss Bill Holland said it was thrilling news.

Next month, the Welsh star will lead a celebrity line up at Wales' biggest ever Children in Need concert at Cyfartha Park in Merthyr Tydfil.

An audience of up to 5,000 will watch Terfel performing along with The Pretenders, Louise and Lisa Maffia.

The event, called Pudsey in the Park, is believed to be the largest live concert ever staged in the south Wales valleys.

BBC Wales and Merthyr Tydfil are co-sponsoring the concert.

Tickers for the concert go on sale on 3 November.