UK reality show's opera star makes the most of his One Chance

As the first winner of Simon Cowell's latest reality hit, Britain's Got Talent, Paul Potts went from nobody to a major celebrity. The amateur opera vocalist is in Hong Kong to promote his album, One Chance, and the media gathered at the Langham Place Hotel yesterday for a two-song showcase.

The performance was a revelation, at least for those who have not seen Potts on the television show or the YouTube clips, which rank among the website's most-viewed.

'I keep constantly pinching myself,' the singer gushed. 'I never dreamt that I could be here six months ago. I feel like all my Christmases are coming at once. I feel privileged to be able to do what I love doing, and honoured to be here. I would like to thank everyone for giving me and my wife such a warm welcome.'

Modesty notwithstanding, it seems Potts has come to accept his performer status. He may not have been formally trained, but now that he has become a professional singer, he has developed some routines to keep his voice in check.

'I prefer not eating anything two to three hours before I perform,' he said. 'I also avoid anything with garlic in it because my wife hates it. Eating lettuce, you also end up losing a lot of air, so I also try to avoid salad.'