McManus: 'Susan Boyle's story is lovely'

Michelle McManus has admitted that she is touched by the story of Susan Boyle's rise to fame.

The Pop Idol winner confirmed that she is a fan of her fellow Scot, who became an overnight sensation after auditioning for Britain's Got Talent.

McManus told STV: "There's something really pleasing about Susan Boyle. I mean, whether you think she's the best singer in the world or not.

"I've read recently about people saying she's just really average or she's not as good as what people say, and that may be the case if that's what you think, but how lovely to see this woman who lived quite a sheltered life her whole life, who was the victim of bullying from the local community, who is now going to move to America.

"It's a place where people love her and her talents will be appreciated. It's just a wonderful story, it's a feel-good factor story."

Boyle's forthcoming second album was recently tipped to top this year's Christmas chart following a surge of pre-sale requests.