X Factor finalist Joe McElderry has admitted that his mentor Cheryl Cole has become like his big sister on the show. Joe is Cheryl’s only act left in this weekend’s final and the singer said that this and the fact that they are from the same area, has strengthened the bond between them.

Joe told Star Magazine:

“She’s a really hands-on mentor. She helps out a lot with her acts.

“She has become like an older sister to me. I think it’s really helped that I’m from the same area.”

He added:

“She gets really nervous as well! When we are standing backstage me and Cheryl are literally throwing up, well not literally. But we are both nervous.

“And then when we get on stage, we stand there going: ‘Oh my God!’

“I’m always hanging out in Cheryl’s dressing room before the show starts.