SINGING star Michael Auger chose a Petersfield beauty spot for the unveiling of a portrait of himself he commissioned.

Back for a few days relaxation with his family, he met Bristol-based artist David Mealing by the Heath Pond to see the oil painting for the first time.

And Michael, of musical theatre boyband Collabro, which has gained international stardom since winning television’s Britain’s Got Talent in 2014, was delighted with the artwork.

“It is amazing. I have been showing some friends and they are all astounded. I don’t know how anyone can paint like that to make it look so real,” he enthused.

He joked though that his parents couldn’t believe that anyone would want to paint him.

Michael, who is embarking on a three-month nationwide tour in October, and has just finished a series of concerts supporting Sir Cliff Richard, including one at Stansted House, hasn’t decided where to hang the picture yet.

But it may take pride of place in the bedroom of his family home, along with gold discs Collabro has earned.

The artistic talents of David caught Michael’s eye when he took part in Sky TV’s Portrait Artist of the Year programme. He didn’t win the competition but Michael loved his realistic style of painting and got in touch.

He sent him one of the photos that appeared in a Michael Auger calendar for David to copy, and five weeks later he completed the portrait which features his trademark black and white contrast strip.

David was very nervous about showing Michael the finished work, so was very relieved to know he loved it.

Another artist Michael has nothing but admiration for too now is Sir Cliff after his Just Fabulous Rock ‘n’ Roll Tour. “Before every show he would come into the dressing room and wish us luck. He was always so kind to us. He’s a star,” said Michael.

While back home, Michael kept in shape at the Taro Centre gym, in preparation for a busy end of the year, with the 30-date tour, taking in G Live in Guildford, The Mayflower Theatre in Southampton, and the London Palladium.

The Palladium is where Collabro performed for the Royal Variety Performance after winning Britain’s Got Talent, and it was the venue for the 10th anniversary of the show last year with the band picked as one of the favourite acts to perform.

“It is really nice to be going back there as it is a very special place for us,” he said.