BOLTON'S very own pop idol, Rebecca Goven, will be using her new found status to help children with behavioural problems.

Rebecca failed to make the final round of top TV talent show Pop Idol, but came fifth out of the 10 contestants in her heat with her version of the Gabrielle song Out of Reach.

She will be making a guest appearance at Base Camp on Marsden Road to talk to youths who have been suspended from school.

As part of the project, the youngsters are taught by youth worker Charlie Barrett, founder of Cherry New music Therapy, a group set up to give people the chance to express emotion through modern music.

The service, also run by musician Terry Dixon, is aimed at improving confidence and a sense of achievement through creative expression.

Past groups who have benefited include unemployed youths, different ethnic minorities and youths at risk of offending.

Mr Barrett's girlfriend, Diane Shuttleworth, is Rebecca's hairdresser. After meeting her, he invited the budding pop singer to get involved.

She will be talking to the children about the benefits of music and recording a CD with them, which they can take home.

Rebecca, a former Rivington and Blackrod High School pupil, said: "I have always wanted to work with children who have problems and to help bring out the good in them and show them there is something positive in life.

"It should be very interesting and I am looking forward to it. It is great to be able to use music to help them."

Rebecca is also planning to record a track with members of The Hall i'th' Wood Residents Association youth club.

After reading about Rebecca in the BEN and seeing her on television, the excited youths were desperate to meet her.

Rita Riley, who runs the club, has helped organise the project. GLAD TO HELP: Rebecca Goven