Essex: Olly is backing Matt for X Factor success

“Matt has been the favourite for several weeks and he needs to maintain that, keep delivering,” said Olly, from Witham, who was runner-up in last year’s competition.

“He needs to take a bit of a risk, do something different to keep the fans onside.”

The pair will meet up tomorrow night when Olly returns to the X Factor stage to perform on the results show on ITV.

“It is going to be weird because you expect the judges to give you some feedback and criticism. It is going to be fun to go there and just perform the song, to enjoy it without all the pressure that I had last year.

“It is just a chance to do the song justice.”

He added: “I didn’t ever expect to be where I am now. It is great to be going back and just enjoy it.”

The 26-year-old, who still lives with his parents, has revealed that Matt, who is from Little Maplestead, near Halstead, got in touch through a mutual friend after finding out he had made it through to the live shows.

“We have spoken a lot since the show started. I think he has a great chance of winning and there is no doubt in my mind that he will make it through to the final.

“He has just got to keep singing his heart out. He needs to bring a bit more of his personality out in his songs, but apart from that he has a great chance.”

Parallels have been drawn between the two singers – who grew up within a few miles of one another – but Olly does not see the similarities.

“Me and Matt are clearly different. He has an incredible voice and he lets his voice do the talking whereas I like to dance around the stage and entertain.

“The only similarity is that he is from Essex and so am I, and we both wear hats.”

Olly’s self-titled debut album is released on November 29 and he is due to announce dates for his tour.

“I am raring to go, and I am excited about the album. I am proud of what I have achieved.”

He will, however, be taking a rest over Christmas, which he plans to spend with his family in his beloved Essex.