DOZENS of hopefuls proved they had the X Factor when they gathered for the regional auditions in the Square yesterday.

Potential performers of all ages and abilities sung their hearts out at Obscura cafe hoping to be chosen for the TV programme which could see one of them crowned the X Factor champion.

Michael McFadyen, researcher for Thames TV, said: “This is part of our regional tour where we visit the smaller places in the UK. They are the smaller versions you see on TV. We’re looking for the untapped talent who can’t make it to the big cities to make it more accessible to the public.

“James Arthur was found in these sort of auditions and we have had some great talent already.”

Among that talent was Blythe Acres, a Bournemouth University student, who sang Bohemian Rhapsody for her audition.

The 19-year-old said she was put up to it by her house mate.

“She pretty much bulled me into it,” she said. “She said if I didn’t do it she’d eat all my food in the fridge. I think she got fed up with hearing me around the house.”

Nina Nagel, also of Bournemouth University, said she’s been singing since a youngster, and chose Amy Winehouse’s version of Valerie to impress the judges.

“We actually just went to town to get some presents, and I saw the van and they said it was the only audition today,” said the 19-year-old. “The worst they can do is say no. I have always watched it and always imagined myself in the actual auditions so why not take the chance? I’ve never done an audition in my life and even if I don’t get further it’s just an experience.”

Jasmine Parker, 20, of Poole, said she’s auditioned before but felt she lacked the confidence to help her through.

The mum-of-one, to seven-month-old Shane, said: “I did it a few years ago and did Britain’s Got Talent, but my nerves were a wreck. I’ve come back now because I think I’ve got more to do it for with this little one.”

Self-confessed karaoke lover William Wallington, 49, of Boscombe, said he hopes the audition will help him eventually get an acting career.

Stephen Payne, 24, sang Can’t Stand the Rain for the judges, which he wrote while in hospital while battling an illness.

He said: “I’ve been ill for a number of years and I’ve not been able to do it. I’m trying to make something of my life because I’ve been in and out of hospital for so long.”