The News Shopper is going head to head with rivals South London Press - with its campaign to propel Kate to Big Brother victory.

The weekly south east London and north Kent series has been pushing for her to win for weeks, while the SLP has also jumped on the bandwagon with its own campaign for Bermondsey's Jade.

The Shopper campaign is backed by Kate Lawler's family and friends, including her kickboxing trainer, former world champion Andy Mayo, who described the 22-year-old as "a great girl".

Now the blonde beauty has emerged as the clear favourite to win the £70,000 purse this weekend, with dizzy Jade Goody bringing up the rear.

Kate's twin sister, Kelly, told News Shopper: "All the family are just trying to chill out a bit as it's bound to be completely hectic this weekend."

The paper also tracked down Jade's real-life big brother, Brett Luckens, to his home in Portugal.

The 25-year-old former chef from Biggin Hill, Kent, was given up for adoption by his mum, Jackie Budden, and first met Jade three years ago.

He offered the dental nurse a shoulder to cry on if Kate beats her to the top spot.

"I've realised from watching her on Big Brother how much she needs me", he said.

Do you have a story about the regional press? Ring 0116 227 3122/3121, or
e-mail pastill@nep.co.uk