WIN or lose, Zoe Birkett has been a wonderful ambassador for Darlington.

The 16-year-old is now in the final five in Pop Idol and is likely to go further still in the competition which has become a national obsession.

On Saturday night, singing Abba's classic Thank You For The Music, Zoe stole the show with a performance full of style and confidence.

William Young remains the favourite but Zoe is certain to win a recording contract whatever happens now. And at only 16, her talent can only blossom in the years ahead.

As well as being a star performer, she also comes across as having a lovely, down to earth nature, which is a tribute to her parents.

It is time now for Darlington to start preparing to pay a fitting tribute to Zoe Birkett.

If Darlington Football Club ever won anything of note, the players would be granted a civic reception and tour of the town in an open-topped bus.

Zoe Birkett has already brought more positive publicity to Darlington than money can pay for and a civic reception is the least she deserves.

Let's make sure she knows the town is proud of her whether she comes first, second, third, fourth or fifth.

Zoe's going to be a star for years to come and Darlington must show not miss the opportunity to celebrate having such a talented and famous citizen.