Jemma Barton has set her sights on a place in the finals of the ITV talent search show, the X-Factor, and is travelling to Glasgow next weekend to start her quest for a coveted place in the competition.

The 23-year-old is very excited at the prospect of meeting the star panel but she has a realistic understanding of the hard road ahead. Getting to the auditions will just be the first hurdle.

Jemma told the Times: "I go to Hampden Park, Glasgow on May 4 and the next day I have to sing at my first audition. If I get through that I go to the second round and an audition in front of the full panel, Simon Cowell, Sharon Osborne, Louis Walsh and Danni Minogue.

"I haven't decided what song I will sing yet but I am working on a few. I'm really excited and can't wait to get there."

But there is a note of reality in the proceedings.

"We have been told that there are so many in for the auditions that we should take suitable clothing for waiting outside. There isn't room for us all indoors, so that gives you an idea of the competition."

Jemma has been singing since she was four and has gained all her grades in music theatre. She has taken part in musicals and frequently sings in karaoke but since starting her own beauty parlour business in Coleraine last year she has had little time for performing.

She said: "I haven't sung in public for about two years and this will all be nerve wracking but I'm training myself to think that I will be singing in the shower.

"My mum says I am crazy for entering the X-Factor but the next minute she is encouraging me. I know it is a big shot but I really want to give it a go."

So, for now, let's hope all goes well for Jemma and that she will be needing a big vote from the people of Coleraine in the near future.