Alexis on her way to the top

Alexis, 14, of Capstan Drive, was one of four singers from a regional final in Brighton on Friday, April 20, to get through to the grand final of the competition which will be held at Portsmouth's Guildhall on May 26.

The Littlehampton Community School pupil sang Celine Dion's Think Twice but her stunning performance left the judges with no hesitation as they put her through to the final with 20 other singers from across the south.

The judges said she gave an "excellent performance" and had "star quality" and were impressed with how well she sung such a demanding song.

She was supported at the competition, held at the Concorde 2 nightclub, by friends and family who were delighted to see her go through to the finals.

With the competition open to under-17s for the first time this year, Alexis jumped at the chance to get involved and sailed through the preliminary stages.

First prize in the junior competition, which is run parallel to the senior competition, is the chance for the winner to record their own album, including a track written by professional singer Alesha, formerly of Mis-Teeq, and producer Mark Hill.

"I couldn't believe it when they called my name," said Alexis. "I was the fourth person to be chosen so they strung it out for ages and I was so shocked that it was me.

"I'd like to thank all my friends and family for coming to support me, especially my boyfriend Gary Tapping.

"I'm really excited about the final because it is in a really lovely venue and I have always wanted to perform there. I will be singing the same song but I;ve got time to change a few bits so I think I'll alter it slightly."

Tickets for the final are 15 if bought before the end of April and are available by calling Jacqui on 01903 730464.

Voting at the final will be a combination of the judges' decisions and supporters' votes.

Supporters can vote for Alexis by texting 'idol alexis' to 63333. Texts cost 50p plus the standard network rate and 25p goes to Crimestoppers.