Born February 3, 1966 in Newton-le-Willows, Rick grew up on Park Road and attended St Peter's Primary School and Selwyn James High School.

He used to play in local pubs including the Legh Arms, the Oak Tree, the Labour Club and the Cricket Club.

And it was while he was singing in these establishments with boyband FBI that he was discovered by pop mogul Pete Waterman in 1985.

Two years later he hit Number One with 80s anthem Never Gonna Give You Up.

His continuing chart success earned him a Grammy nomination for Best New Artist in 1988. But as the 80s faded away, so did Rick's pop career.

He last enjoyed minor chart success in 1993 with the album Body and Soul. In the same year Rick's daughter was born and he decided to quit performing to spend time with her.

Rick is currently writing material for a new album.