BRADFORD'S X Factor hopeful has overcome a midweek illness to be well enough to perform on tonight's opening live show.

Danny Tetley, 37, from Shipley, missed rehearsals through the week due to illness, but has recovered in time to perform live on the ITV talent show, which airs at 8.25pm today.

The singer, who is now based in Benidorm, is expected to be performing 'Hero' by Mariah Carey in his first appearance, after being chosen as one of the four finalists in the 'Overs' category.

Posting a message for his supporters on Twitter, Danny said: "Hi guys, it's live shows day, and as you can see I'm not ill, I'm more than well.

"The time has come, it's finally here, live show day.

"Hopefully my performance will grab your votes, and thank you again for all your support.

"For me, the stand-out performances of tonight that I have heard in rehearsals are Shan [Ako], Scarlett [Lee], and Brendan [Murray]. Look out for them and me of course."

This is not Danny's first tilt at fame through a Simon Cowell talent show, having reached the final 75 in the first series of Pop Idol in 2001, which shot his fellow Bradfordian Gareth Gates to fame when he finished second.

Danny, who attended Salt Grammar School, also entered Popstars: The Rivals a year later, but was unsuccessful in his audition. He has now returned, 16 years later, for his final shot at fame.