Gareth Gates is planning to release a new album of "mature pop songs".

The Pop Idol star hopes that he will be able to make a comeback despite being dropped by his record label earlier this year.

A source told the Daily Star: "Gareth's been working hard, mainly recording in Scotland as well as a few tunes in London. He's written several of the songs and played guitar and drums on many of the tracks and the team are very happy with his album.

"Gareth has been working closely with Simon Fuller and is still very positive, although there's no new record deal."