GORDON Haskell today gave the news every fan has been waiting to hear he WILL be appearing in Swindon after all.

The Advertiser revealed yesterday that he had snubbed the town after landing a £2million record deal.

But just hours after the article appeared, his agent called Swindon Arts Centre and said he had changed his mind.

The singer has become the challenger to Robbie Williams and Nicole Kidman for the Christmas Number One, and even appeared on Top of the Pops last night to sing his song How Wonderful You Are.

He originally said he was too busy to fulfil a commitment to appear alongside former Pretenders guitarist Robbie McIntosh on Friday, January 18 at the Old Town venue.

Haskell, a former member of King Crimson, cancelled his New Year tour to concentrate on the new record deal. But he has now reinstated a number of dates, including the one in Swindon.

Jill Tomalin, marketing manager at the Arts Centre, said: "We are delighted. It has been a bit of a rollercoaster but he is definitely coming. I think he felt a bit guilty about letting down his fans and decided to make as many dates as he can. We are just pleased that he chose Swindon."

Tickets are still available for the concert. The Art Centre's ticket office will be open again on January 2.

Haskell's song was released on December 17 and is currently placed in the top five according to WH Smith sales figures.

The Christmas Number One will be revealed tomorrow on Radio One. The singer has been performing for around 30 years including session work with Cliff Richard, a solo career, songwriting and playing with Robbie McIntosh.

He will be bringing out a new album in the New Year.