Susan Boyle is now a star on the world stage

Apr 23 2009 by Debbie Spalding, West Lothian Courier

BLACKBURN star Susan Boyle continued to conquer the world this week – as an astounding 100 million people watched her video on YouTube.

Susan has received offers of book deals and roles in Hollywood movies and has appeared on American television with stars Jay Leno and Larry King.

Chat show queen Oprah Winfrey has also said she’d like Susan to appear on her show and Susan’s idol Elaine Page said this week she would love to do a duet with her.

Susan has won the hearts of millions of people since she left judges dumbstruck with her performance on Britain’s Got Talent 10 days ago.

Susan, who is odds-on to win the talent show, now has a minder staying at her home to keep fans at bay while West Lothian Council said it had received stacks of mail for her that had been incorrectly addressed.

And the devout Catholic says she has thoroughly enjoyed the attention so far.

She said this week: “The last 10 days have been extremely hectic but also very enjoyable.

“It’s been a whirlwind really and has taken a bit of getting used to – but I’m having a great time.

“I just cannot believe all of this is happening to me, it’s all been tremendous.”

And asked about the support she has received from around the world, Susan said: “I think it’s wonderful, out of this world.

“I never would have imagined in my wildest dreams that all of this could happen to someone like me.

“I’d just like to thank everybody out there from the bottom of my heart. It’s so wonderful what you are all doing for me – I promise to do my best, so fingers crossed.”

Despite her joy at her new-found fame, it was revealed by a member of Susan’s family this week that the star hides a secret heartache.

Her sister Patricia died of cot death when she was just months old and another sister, 53-year-old Kathleen, suffered a fatal asthma attack eight years ago.

Their father Patrick (83), had died a year earlier after battling cancer and in 2007, Susan’s mum Bridget (91), passed away.

Susan’s niece Pamela Hewitt (36), who lives in Whitburn, said: “Every time we turn on the television it’s Susan they’re talking about. We’re very proud.”

A CD featuring a song recorded by Susan nearly 10 years ago being auctioned by Livingston Football Club has attracted bids of over £100.

And MSP Mary Mulligan this week lodged a motion in the Scottish Parliament backing Susan and calling on people to get behind her in the competition.

She said: “Susan is a great example to us all of what ordinary people can do when they get the chance and I wanted to be sure that her success was acknowledged here in the Scottish Parliament.

“I will be following her progress closely and feel sure that Susan is a winner.”

To make a bid on Susan’s CD visit www.livingstonfc.co.uk/ebay.php.