Chris Hide from Lancing has again confounded the bookmakers by marching into the last six of Pop Idol.

The 18-year-old, dubbed "The Vicar" because of his unorthodox image, was favourite to be booted out on Saturday's show on ITV1.

But his rendition of the Rufus and Chaka Khan dance floor anthem Ain't Nobody proved a hit with viewers.

All seven finalists had to perform disco songs in front of the judges, headed by "Mr Nasty" Simon Cowell.

But it was Pete Waterman, usually Chris's biggest supporter, who had words of warning for the former-Boundstone Community College pupil.

He said: "I think you should have sung 'I Say A Little Prayer' because you will need it."

Cowell said: "You are a great guy - I love having you on the show. That wins the award for the most peculiar performance of the season so far."

Chris told hosts Ant and Dec he was dreading singing an up-tempo number but "really enjoyed" his performance.