THE parents of Popstars reject Michelle Heaton have spoken of their joy after she netted a £2.5m record deal.

Michelle, 21, along with the four other finalists from the shows, has signed up to Richard Branson's V2 label after forming new group, Liberty.

Her parents, Christine and Chris, are thrilled their daughter has finally hit the big time.

Mrs Heaton, from Gateshead, said: "She told us she thinks Richard Branson is a lovely man and very genuine.

"We are confident he can do good things for them, he is not the type of man who wastes money.

"We are just happy they are doing what they want to do. They have been taking their time deciding on their future and how they want to do things, and they haven't rushed into anything."

Her father, Chris, said: "She still comes back up here for the odd day and goes to see her friends. This is still her home.

"We are thrilled and very excited that it has all gone so well.

"At the time, I think Michelle thought it would have been nice if she had got into Hear'Say.

"And I thought it was a bit unfair when they were all dubbed the Flopstars, although Michelle said she expected it."