Leon Wins X Factor

11 months ago 16th Dec 08:22

X Factor - Leon Jackson was last night crowned winner of X Factor beating hot favorite Rhydian to the top spot..

The 18-year-old shop assistant, who began singing just months before the series began, pipped red-hot favourite Rhydian Roberts with a last-minute surge of votes.

The pair were seperated by just one percent right up to just seconds before voting lines closed at 10.30pm.

After the result was announced the Leon broke down in tears and said: "As it went along I knew I could potentially change my mum's life, and I've just done it."

He now wins a £1 million recording contract and will see his version of new X Factor Christmas song 'When You Believe' in the shops by Wednesday.

As he tearfully accepted his congratulations, Leon was hugged by girlfriend Emily Biggs, 17, from rival contestants Hope.

Presenter Dermot O'Leary joked: "I'll have to prise Emily away from you, Leon."

Leon, of West Lothian, was the first Scot to reach the final of X Factor, creating a battle with the Welsh public voting for their hero, opera singer Rhydian.

Speaking minutes after his victory, at a midnight press conference, he beamed: "I've won a million quid, and changed my life forever."

Laying a loving hand on his mum's shoulder, Leon said: "I'm stunned. I've changed mine and my mum's life.

"I'm so young. I'm only 18.

"My mum has always looked after me, and I said would look after her. I'm really pleased.

"My birthday is coming up so this is going to be the best Christmas and birthday ever."

The teenager, from West Lothian, said his style of music was world's apart from runner-up Rhydian.

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