Robbie misses out in UK chart race

The Cheeky Girls have beaten Robbie Williams' first UK singles chart release for a year.

Monica and Gabriella Irimia, described by Pete Waterman as "the worst act ever" stormed in at number two in the UK chart.

Robbie, 28, who co-wrote the track Feel with Guy Chambers, had to settle for fourth place with the debut release from his fifth album, Escapology.

Feel is Robbie's first release since Somethin' Stupid at Christmas 2001 on which he dueted with actress Nicole Kidman.

The Cheeky Girls' track, The Cheeky Song (Touch My Bum), was penned for the girls by their mother Margaret and produced by small dance label Multiply.

It was held off the number one slot by Eminem's Lose Yourself. Daniel Bedingfield also beat the former Take That star, his release, If You're Not The One, claiming third place.

However, Robbie's fifth album, Escapology, has been announced as the fastest selling album of 2002.

Staying at the top spot in the UK today for a third consecutive week Escapology has achieved quadruple platinum sales.

Meanwhile, One True Voice, the band formed from the winning boys on Popstars: The Rivals are favourites to take Christmas number one.

William Hill are giving odds of 4/7 on the "male harmony group" and 9/2 to Girls Aloud - made up of the five winning females.