SINGING sensation Grace Davies has become an early contender to win this year’s X Factor after wowing the judges on the opening night.

The warehouse worker from Langho was washed with praise from Simon Cowell, Louis Walsh, Sharon Osbourne and Nicole Sherzinger after performing her own song, roots, for the first time.

The 20-year-old won over Mr Cowell, who described the song as ‘beautiful’ as the ITV show returned to the nation’s screens.

The former Clitheroe Royal Grammar School pupil told judges she had written the song after her friends had previously told her she would never make it as a singer.

On Facebook, Miss Davies, who lives with her mum Cheryl, and dad, Bill, said: “Guys, I’m totally overwhelmed, today has been like Christmas day and results day all in one, thank you so freaking much.

“I am going to go through all your messages now, having another cry and a bottle of Prosecco, so much love.”
 

Speaking on the ITV show she said: "I work in a warehouse packing CDs, and vinyls and T-shirts.

“I’ve been gigging since I was 16, doing it every weekend.

“While my friends were going out to underage clubs and things, I was singing at people’s birthdays on a Saturday night, or at weddings and things like that.

“The one thing I like to do in life is perform and that’s where I’m happiest - that’s all I’ve ever wanted to do.

“I think everybody think pop stars are meant to be very glamorous, especially the girls, wearing heels and mini-skirts and having great bodies.

“I just think, actually, I’d rather just be in a pair of trainers and some baggy trousers and just feel comfortable on stage.”

The singer has already seen moments of stardom after her song ‘Drop That’ was aired on BBC Radio One and it was signed by Sony Music Entertainment and Get Twisted Records.

The full-time singer who used to gig every Friday at Angles Restaurant in Longridge, saw success in 2015 when her cover of ‘Hello’ by Adele went viral, reaching almost 11 million views on SoundCloud.

To date the track has more than 51 million views.
Miss Davies was flooded with praise across social media.

On Facebook, fan Glen Gannon said: “Fantastic voice, fantastic performance, fantastic tune, very impressed.

“Found your performance on X factor touching and top class, well done young lady.

“It hit a chord with me, keep it up, fabulous I must say.”
Amy Wilk said: “You are amazing. I literally love you.

“You’re so talented your voice is beautiful and your song writing skills are awesome.

After Grace's audition on Saturday, Mr Cowell, said: “I loved it and I have to tell you, I really like you Grace. This is a beautiful, beautiful song.

“It’s genuine, it came from your heart, it’s believable, and that’s why I’m so excited.”