Portsmouth performers make their bid for X Factor stardom

Show producers are holding open auditions in the city as part of a nationwide search for new stars.

Singers who have spent years practising their craft hope judges will be blown away with their talents.

Natalie Arnold, 28, of Milton, has decided to tackle a huge song - Whitney Houston’s I Will Always Love You.

She said: I’ve been singing since I was little. I thought if I don’t try it now, I never will. I love the auditions. You really see how talented some people are around the world.’

Natalie’s 11-year-old son Ashley loves The X Factor and says his favourite judge is Simon Cowell - because he’s honest with contestants over their abilities.

The Portsmouth auditions are a part of the show’s mobile audition tour, which is visiting over 40 towns and cities across the UK.

‘We’re really excited to be hosting the Portsmouth auditions,’ said Cascades centre director Rhoda Joseph. ‘There are some incredibly talented young bands and singers in the city and X Factor represents a fantastic opportunity for people to show off their talent.

‘Everyone at the centre is looking forward to seeing if the next star of tomorrow comes from the area.’

The auditions are open to groups or individuals aged 16 or over, and will be held until 5pm, opposite T K Maxx.

As the auditions are held on a strictly first-come first-served basis, acts are advised to arrive early to avoid missing out.

If the hopefuls impress with their vocals, they will be in with a chance of auditioning in front of the X Factor judges, when the judges’ auditions take place in summer.