Updated 29 December 2001, 09.16

Gareth Gates, favourite to win

They claim that the last thing they want to do to the contestants is break their confidence and scare them off, but that is exactly what they do!

Although the judges occasionally show enthusiasm for an act, they can't help throwing in a bit of sarcasm or a nasty comment.

Sometimes they even snigger behind their backs!

I feel hurt and angry not only towards the judges but all those members of the public who think that Rik Waller should have been disqualified.

It's ridiculous to say this just because he is a bit overweight!

Someone to look up to

Finalist Darius Danesh

In the end isn't it all supposed to be down to the contestant's voice, and not whether they are fat or thin, tall or small, or even if they have a speech impediment.

Most people are looking for someone to look up to, to admire and to listen to - not to judge their appearance.

And I think every single one of those people deserve a chance no matter what they look like!"

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