X Factor - Leon keeps pushing himself

14 December 2007 - Rhydian maybe be favourite to win but Leon has been versatile and pushed himself hard, the Scot's mum has said.

Wendy Jackson told the Daily Record that although everybody may be banking on Welsh warbler Rhydian to win the competition, Leon has been pushing himself more and more each week.

She even likened the contest to the story of the tortoise and the hare - possibly because Rhyd has been a strong contender from day one but Leon has had to develop his talent slowly and surely over time.

"Whatever happens, I'll be very proud," she added. "I told him he has to go out, relax and enjoy himself because he has nothing to lose."

The newspaper also revealed that Wendy will spend the night of the final like a VIP after a local firm hired a limo to take her from the airport to the television studio. She will be accompanied by Leon's granny Jean.

He is set to appear on stage for a duet with Kylie Minogue in the final, when they will sing her 1990s pop hit Better the Devil You Know.

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