The X Factor contestants got a taste of the red carpet lifestyle as they mingled with music stars at the Mobo Awards.

Bookmakers' favourite Andrea Faustini was joined by Fleur East, Paul Akister, Jack Walton and Jake Quickenden at the bash in London.

Andrea said he "takes it a day at a time", despite being a good bet to win the show.

The Italian singer, who has wowed the judges and public with his renditions of Whitney Houston and Michael Jackson songs, said: "No pressure, no pressure. I'm fine. I'm enjoying myself so I think that's what matters."

Andrea, who flew from Rome to audition for The X Factor, has received praise from chart-topping singer Ed Sheeran. The Sing star texted Simon Cowell compliments about the 20-year-old contestant, because of his love for pugs and fashion sense.

"I love Ed Sheeran so I'm very, very happy. It's crazy," said Andrea.

He admitted he suffers from stage nerves before going on stage.

"I get very, very nervous. I don't think about anything. It's like I'm lost," he said. "When the crowds stand up, it feels like I am doing something good. It's like, 'Wow'."

Fleur, meanwhile, revealed she was "hurt" by Mel B's criticism of her last performance.

The Spice Girl, who is mentoring the boys group, complained she could not hear Fleur clearly over backing vocals during the chorus of Monie Love's It's A Shame (My Sister) and said it was "like cheating".

"I was always Scary Spice whenever we played the Spice Girls, so I was like, 'Mel, why?' I thought that (cheating) was a strong word," the 26-year-old singer said.

"But you know, I watched it back. She did say she wasn't dissing the performance, she just didn't hear me on the chorus.

"I was doing so much up there - I was rapping, singing and dancing. I thought I could hear myself but you know, everyone's not going to love me all the time and give me great comments."

Fleur is intent on not having any comments like that this week, as she takes on her "favourite song" for movies week.

"This week, I'm going to make sure there are no comments like that and everyone can hear me really well. It's one of my favourite songs ever so I'm excited," she said.

The X Factor airs on ITV on Saturday, with the results show on Sunday.