SINGING doctor Kieran Moriarty, is celebrating the news that his CD has gone into a second production run -- and even the Pope has a copy.

The decorated Bolton Royal Hospital consultant, honoured with a CBE for his pioneering work in medicine, believes the Pope is listening to his disc called Irish Ballads, which was released in May.

Dr Moriarty's name is often mentioned in The Vatican circles, but usually for his pioneering work in changing Catholic medical policies, allowing people with coeliac disease to have gluten-free Communion wafers.

Now, however, his name is being uttered in a completely different context.

Dr Moriarty said: "I know that the Pope has received a copy because a well-known Polish doctor who treats him, bought one for him."

The CD disappeared quickly off the shelves in Bolton with 2,500 copies being sold locally.

A new batch of the CD is now available at the Royal Bolton Hospital's shop.

Proceeds go towards the Salford Catholic Diocesan pilgrimage to Lourdes.

Dr Moriarty stepped into the world of music after celebrating his 50th birthday and deciding to go for singing lessons in his lunchtime.

The father-of-four, now a member of an operatic society, said: "I'm delighted that the CD has sold so well. The sale of the copies has raised £20,000 so far.