A FORMER X Factor finalist has described his new career as a ‘dream come true’ as he takes the reins of a prominent pub.

Chorley lad Jonjo Kerr, who was an X-Factor finalist in the year Little Mix won, will take over the reigns of The Imperial pub, on Union Street, Chorley.

The Imperial will re-open on Friday and Mr Kerr has asked Simon Cowell and Little Mix to attend.

The 34-year-old was nicknamed the ‘Singing Soldier’ when he made the finals of the 2011 series of X Factor ,while still serving in the 3rd Battalion Yorkshire Regiment.

Mr Kerr, who is born and bred in Chorley and attended Albany High School, said he couldn’t wait to get going in his home town.

The father-of-two said Little Mix star Leigh-Anne Pinnock had responded to his invite and promised to visit.

He said: “It’s a dream come true.

“X Factor was great but that was a long time and after years of indecisiveness I decided to fulfil my life-long dream to become a publican.

“Some people think I should be envious of what Little Mix have achieved but they deserve all the success  and they’re really nice girls as well.

“If they ever want to perform at The Imperial I’m sure I could make it happen. Simon Cowell could come along as well.”

Mr Kerr, who is a father to 12-year-old Bradley and six-year-old Dominic, said providing great entertainment would be at the heart of The Imperial.

“I’m a local lad and I really think The Imperial will be a great addition to the fantastic venues that are already in the town.”

“I genuinely feel that the town is coming back to its former glory, where every weekend the people of the town can go out and have a great time, like it used to be.

“I’m a massive believer in community and that’s why I think running my own pub is perfect for me.

“I want all the stuff that pubs had when I was growing up likes a darts team, football team, fishing team and most importantly a sense of community cohesion.”