ONE of the stars of Greenock-based BBC drama Waterloo Road is set to launch his singing career — in Gourock.

Joe Slater, who plays Lenny Brown in the soap, will swap the school for the stage when he steps out at a tribute night at The Factory Club next Friday night.

The talented 17-year-old, who counts well-known American producer and TV star David Gest as one of his fans, will perform alongside the show’s driver, John Burns.

He said: “I’m really excited as singing is my thing.

“I’m looking forward to performing with John too — he is a great guy and is one of the best Elvis impersonators you will ever see in your life.

“The show will be a mix of Elvis, Frank Sinatra, Ray Charles, who we will emulate in our own style.” Joe has already had a taste of singing stardom, as he got through to the final auditions for hit TV show American Idol.

He said: “I was on holiday a few years ago and heard about these big auditions in Disney’s Hollywood Studios in Florida.

“There were thousands of people there and I got through to the final which was filmed for TV, but because I’m not a US citizen they wouldn’t let me continue.

“It was still a great experience though.” It was while working on a show called A Nightmare On Lime Street at the Royal Court Theatre in Liverpool last year when Joe met top producer Gest.

He told the Tele: “David Gest is a good mate of mine, I met him when we did the show and he was really interested in my music and looked after me.

“He’s like a mentor.” Joe, who is from Liverpool, says he has a close affinity with Greenock after moving up here to film the hit BBC One drama, which is based at the old Greenock Academy.

He said: “It’s great — I’ve had a blast up here, it’s been really good.

“I love Greenock, it’s been like a new home for me and I also think Gourock is lovely too.” John Burns, whose stage name is J.B.Montana, has himself toured the UK and Europe with his Elvis and Neil Diamond tribute act and says he can’t wait to show local music fans what he can do.

He said: “Me and Joe did a gig together at Partick Bowling Club a few weeks ago and it was great, so I thought I’d organise one here in Gourock.

“It’s a chance to get my name and Joe’s name out there, as nobody really knows us here.” The Multi Tribute Show is on Friday 6 December from 8pm until 12.30am.

Tickets cost £10 and can be purchased by phoning the Factory Club in Chalmers Street on 631035.