FEAR turned to ecstasy as singers won their X-Factor auditions in Widnes on Monday.

Their road to fame started in an empty shop in Albert Square.

SS Peter & Paul Catholic College schoolgirl Rossi Walsh-O’Neill, aged 14, from Dundalk Road sang Somebody To Love by Queen.

She said: “I’m so excited.”

Micha Caswell, aged 17, from Runcorn YMCA,said: “Singing is my passion. It’s all I’ve ever wanted to do in life.”

Dawn Gerrard, aged 31, dedicated her success to her mum, Meryl, aged 60, who died last month.

Dawn, from Runcorn YMCA, said: “It’s what mum would have wanted me to do.”

Widnes Elvis legend Johnny Rocco, aged 74, from Dean Street, hopes it will be seventh time lucky.

He said: “I hope I make it to the show this time.”

 

James Marsh, aged 29, from Foxley Heath, Widnes, won rapturous applause from the crowd for his rendition of Elton John's Don't Let The Sun Go Down On You. However, he failed to impress the judges.

James said: "They said it was the wrong song. I'm going to try again next week."

However, his mum, Sue Moisey, aged 61, who was with him said: "I didn't intend to sing but I thought if James didn't get in, I'll go for it. And I got through."

Successful contestants are now invited to another audition on Tuesday, May 6 in Liverpool.