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(from scrapbook 3, page 7)

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'Gay' confession made dad proud

STATUS QUO rock star Francis Rossi says his "proudest moment" was when his son Simon took him aside to say: "Dad, I'm gay."

Singer Rossi, 38, said his relationship with Simon, 21, was transformed by the confession.

"Until then I really didn't like him very much," Rossi said.

"I thought he was a big fat lazy git, a real spoiled brat.

"But it took immense courage to tell me and I admired him for it. Coming out of the closet suddenly made him more mature.

"We can talk to each other, man to man. I know it sounds funny to say that but it's absolutely true. I call him a big faggot but it's not an insult.

"There is no problem about his sexuality."

Simon, a drama student, is the oldest of Rossi's three sons. Rossi is divorced.

Simon lives in Kensignton (sic), West London, with a lover called Stephen. Rossi sald: "I love Simon in the same way I love my other sons.

"There is nothing wrong with gays. They shouldn't feel they have to cover up in any way."

Rossi lives with girlfriend Paige Taylor in Purley, Surrey. He admits he is worried about the spread of AIDS but added: "I think I have as much chance of getting it as Simon."

Image caption: Rossi