Blind Big Brother star Mikey Hughes branded a hero by DJ friend

Jun 8 2008 Exclusive by Heather Greenaway

A DJ pal of blind Big Brother star Mikey Hughes yesterday hailed him an inspirational hero.

Partially sighted Steven Scott said he was struggling to cope with his disability until Mikey helped him.

Mikey, 33, was yesterday asked to be best man at the sham wedding of housemates Mario and Stephanie - who face eviction if their fake relationship is rumbled.

And Steven yesterday tipped Mikey - 4/1 favourite to take the Big Brother crown - to be last out of the Channel 4 house.

Steven, 26, met Mikey when he went to a meeting at Glasgow-based Insight Radio, Europe's first station dedicated to the blind.

He now co-hosts the breakfast show with Mikey.

Steven, of Glasgow, said: "The first person I literally bumped into was Michael. He asked me where I came from and when I said 'the lift' he just laughed. We have been friends since and thanks to him I have acceptedmy condition.

"For years I lived in denial. I was embarrassed to admit I was partially sighted and even handed back my guide dog as I felt I was walking around with a label that made me feel uncomfortable.

"But Michael made me realise I was just a normal person, who could achieve anything I put my mind to. He's had such a hard time yet is still full of enthusiasm."

Mikey has had eye problems since he was a child in Kilwinning, Ayrshire.

He lost his sight at age 23 after an operation to reattach the retina in his right eye. He had been blind in his left eye for years. Steven said: "Instead of sitting back he is determined to fulfil his dream of becoming famous."

"Michael will show the world that blind people are normal, intelligent human beings who can live full and successful lives."

Steven believes his friend's outgoing personality will win over the housemates.

He said: "His wacky ways will endear him to the public but when it comes to having opinions he will walk in with both feet.

"The only problem I can see him having is smoking. He hates it and I don't know how long it will be before he says something."

Steven reckons single Michael could hit it off with trainee teacher Rachel Rice, 24, of Torfaen, Wales - because they both love grapes.

He said: "Michael has an obsession with grapes. Maybe they will be united over a bunch in the house."

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