It turns out that 34 year old, mother of two, Niki Evans, who appeared on last nights X Factor show, has had a bit of experience in the world of pop music.

When she was just 18, music moghul, Pete Waterman tried to turn Niki into the next Kylie Minogue. She released a single called ‘Who Do You Think You Are’ and even sang on a Coca Cola advertisment.

A source told the News of the World: “At one time Niki was being groomed as the next Kylie Minogue. She had the looks and the voice. Unfortunately for her, ‘Who Do You Think You Are’ never had the legs to break through as a major hit. It got a bit of radio airplay and made the charts but wasn’t sensational.

“At the time there were so many female popstars around trying to break it was felt that it wasn’t worth pursuing Niki’s career. Within a couple of years she was back working the amateur circuit. Most people assumed we’d never hear from her again.”

An X Factor spokeswoman has insisted that Niki did not break any rules by applying for the show.

She explained: “As long as an artist isn’t under a current recording contract they are allowed to audition for the show. People like Niki are the reason why Simon Cowell invented The X Factor. She’s tried all her life and this is her second chance.”