We're all so X-cited!

Oct 19 2007 By Emma Cullwick, Birmingham Mail

THE families of two Midland X Factor finalists are cheering them tonight as they prepare to perform live for the first time before the nation.

Donning T-shirts produced by the Birmingham Mail, the families of Kimberley Southwick and Niki Evan, from Tamworth, will be in the audience in London to watch tonight's show.

Kimberley and Niki are two of the 12 final acts competing against each other to win the talent contest and clinch the ultimate prize - a record contract and pop stardom.

Nineteen-year-old Kimberley's parents, Angie and Pete, hope their daughter will avoid being the first to be voted out of the competition.

"We have everything crossed that she'll get through and go all the way," said 50-year-old Angie.

She said the regulars at their family-run pub, the Fox Inn, in Dosthill, where Kimberley works as a barmaid, have all pledged to vote for the singer.

Meanwhile, Niki's children Jonah, aged ten, and Morgan, 12, and her mum Annette Rolph are also praying the 34-year-old makes it through the first programme.

"I really hope the audience will love her for who she is - a warm, funny and caring person with a fantastic voice," said Annette, aged 56.