SOUTHAMPTON'S superstar Craig David has been invited to perform at the White House by one of his many American fans - George W Bush.

The White House has asked Craig to sing at their annual Christmas party for inner city children.

It is proof of just how far 21-year-old Craig, whose mum still lives in the area, has come.

This time three years ago he was still living in Southampton and DJing in local clubs - now the most powerful man in the world is inviting him into his home.

It is not yet known whether Craig will be able to take up the offer to sing for the US President as he has a hectic schedule of tour dates in the UK and the rest of Europe.

"Craig has had an initial invite to visit the White House to perform at their Christmas bash, but it's still in the very early stages," said a spokesman.

Craig is keen to take part in the party, which has previously featured performances from Ricky Martin and Whitney Houston, because he associates with the background of the children, having grown-up on Southampton's Holyrood Estate.

The invite follows a very successful year of promotion in the States which has seen Craig become a major celebrity.

Whether or not he is able to perform at the party, Craig will be back before American audiences again in the near future - a major US arena tour is planned for the middle of next year.

Craig's current single What's Your Flava? is at number eight in the charts, with the release of his next single scheduled for next year.

Although this news has been announced in the UK, the White House declined to comment on the matter, stating that they have released no news about the party.