X-Factor hopeful Jonjo determined to give his all (From This Is Lancashire)

X-Factor hopeful Jonjo determined to give his all

11:00am Saturday 8th October 2011 in Leisure

HIS PREVIOUS performances may only have been in front of a few dozen people in pubs or family gatherings but X-Factor hopeful Jonjo Kerr is determined to give his all when he performs in front of an estimated TV audience of 11 million tonight.

The serving soldier, who grew up in Chorley and lived in Wheelton prior to signing up, spoke to the Lancashire Telegraph from the X-Factor house in London as he made final preparations for his debut performance.

Criticised by mentor Louis Walsh for forgetting his lyrics, Jonjo is determined to eliminate mistakes.

“That’s in the past,” he said. “I’ve been given this chance and I’ve no time for nerves to spoil it. Now’s the time to deliver some special performances and that’s what I’m determined to do.”

Jonjo, who has been given a sabbatical from the Yorkshire Regiment to pursue his dream, said it was a ‘surreal experience’ living in the X-Factor house alongside the 15 other hopefuls.

“I get along fine with the others and I’ve made plenty of friends. The one who I’ve really bonded with is Frankie Cocozza. He’s a really cheeky chappie and we both share a good sense of humour.

“All the contestants are focussed on succeeding but there’s some downtime. Most of it I spend watching films, playing FIFA with the other lads or taking them on at the ping pong table.”

The suspense for Jonjo and his family was all too real last weekend as he broke down in tears as judge Louis Walsh told him he was through.

He said: “The relief was huge, in fact looking at the footage I’m surprised I didn’t break his ribs when I dived on him.

“Only my wife Melissa knew I was through. To be honest I quite like the fact that my friends and family were left in suspense. I think the tension adds to the experience for them.

“I’ve had great support from my friends and supporters in Lancashire and all my workmates in the regiment. I want to make them proud.”

The song he will perform tonight is on ‘deep lockdown’ but Jonjo vowed to entertain.

“I think I’m going to smash it up. It’s time to take it down and show the public what I’m really about,“ he said.