The 80s star, who hails from Newton-le-Willows and is world-famous for his hit Never Gonna Give You Up, discovered his love of music in Wigan's famous Casino.

The 42-year-old singer and former tea boy had formed a band, FBI, and regularly visited The Casino where he became interested in US soul singers such as Alexander O'Neal, Luther Vandross and Michael MacDonald.
Soon after, he signed as a solo artist with Pete Waterman.

Two decades on, he has made a surprising comeback in recent months with the "Rickrolling" phenomenon.
Rickrolling involved a clip of Never Gonna Give You Up that was viewed around the world when Internet users clicked onto a misleading link which took them to the 1987 video.

And now, as fans promise never to give up on the famous tune, Rick has become a surprise contender for best act ever at this year's MTV Europe Music Awards.

Rick's first ever nomination in the MTV Europe Music Awards pits him against Britney Spears, Christina Aguilera, Green Day, Tokio Hotel and U2 for best act ever.

A spokesman for MTV Europe Music Awards said: "The audience has spoken and MTV has been well and truly Rickrolled.
"Rick's fans have obviously decided that he deserves recognition as a pop icon and no doubt they are determined to make sure he wins on the night."

The 2008 MTV Europe Music Awards will be broadcast live from the Liverpool Echo Arena on Thursday, November 6.
Voting is open at the 2008 MTV Europe Music Awards' dedicated website at www.mtvema.com