ACCRINGTON pop star Reece Bibby and his band, Stereo Kicks, had to deal with a stage invader during Saturday's X Factor.

The band was part way through a rendition of Michael Jackson's 'You Are Not Alone' on the ITV talent show when it appeared they had a new member.

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Members of the band could be seen looking nervously around at each other during the live show on Saturday night.

But the impostor, who turned out to be comic Lee Nelson, was quickly tackled by security guards and the group, including the former Hollins Technology College youngster, was praised for how it handled the intrusion.

Judges Simon Cowell, Cheryl Fernandez-Versini, Mel B and Louis Walsh gave the male vocalists, who emerged from last week's sing-off, praise for dealing with the 'idiot' and keeping their composure.

 


 

Show supremo Mr Cowell joked to colleague Louis Walsh, the band's mentor: "One minute you want to turn them into a five-piece and now you go and turn them into a nine-piece!"

He added: "These things happen on live TV, but the important thing is you bounced back from last week."

Comedian Simon Brodkin appeared to confirm he was the stage invader when he tweeted from the account of his alter ego Lee Nelson: "Stereo Kicks were top lads. Still think they'd be better off with nine. I'd vote for them but Cowell's got my phone."

In his comments on the band's performance during a Michael Jackson versus Queen-themed evening, Mr Cowell even singled out 16-year-old Reece, who took on a solo singing spot, for special praise.

He said: "Reece by the way, you did really well."

Speaking on social networking site Twitter, Reece, who had sported a new hairstyle with grey highlights, said: "Guys, I hope the guy that ran on stage didn't ruin our performance. If you enjoyed it, vote please.

"Tonight was amazing, even though there was an unexpected new member.

"Thoughts on the new hair?"

All acts that made it through last night's show will take part in the official X Factor tour.

 


 

The band, which was put together on the show from eight male contestants who had all auditioned as solo performers, is currently sixth favourite to win, with odds of 33/1.

Italian Andrea Faustini is the 5/4 favourite, closely followed by over-25s Ben Haenow and Fleur East.

The band has been subject to speculation it is to be broken up, with reports in at least one national newspaper this weekend that Simon Cowell plans to split them in two.