Nikki is 22 years of age and is an actress.  She had her first break was playing the role Abby in the kids soap, 'Children's Ward'.  But in 2000, she will be known for playing Candice Stowe in the famous ITV1 soap, 'Coronation Street'.  She left the soap in 2005 and since then has been presenting TV shows including CD:UK and Saturday Showdown as well as making guest appearances in the BBC dramas 'Holby City' and 'Casualty'.  The recent drama she has starred in is the BBC1 drama 'New Street Law' as Sammy Dean.  Nikki has sung before in TV shows including Stars In Their Eyes, Disco Mania and ABBA Mania.

Q&As
Why did you want to take part in the series?
To raise as much money for charity, and because I really enjoy singing.

How has the vocal training been going?
It’s fantastic. I’ve never had vocal training before, so to work with vocal trainers that are that experienced is fantastic.

Which of the judges are you most nervous facing?
All of them really as they’ll all have different opinions, it will depend on what song I’m singing.

Which judge would you like to be your mentor?
I’d be happy to be mentored by any of the judges, they’re all different and brilliant in their own ways, so I really don’t mind.

Are you terrified about singing live?
Yes!

How will you react to the judges if they give you negative comments?
If it’s constructive criticism, I’ll work from it and treat it as though it’s a positive. I can learn from it.

What past singing experience have you got?
Charity dos, karaoke and singing in the shower and the car!

Who would be most surprised if you were to win the competition?
I would first and foremost. Probably everyone I know.

What do your friends/family/colleagues think of you taking part?
No one knows yet, other than my mum, who’s been really supportive.

Do you come from a musical family?
Yes, both my mum and dad sing very well. Mum used to sing when she was younger and dad sings as well.

What is your karaoke song?
‘I Wanna Dance With Somebody’ and ‘I Will Always Love You’

Who is your singing inspiration/ favourite artists?
I love all different genres of music, really love R&B, soul, gospel, soft American Rock, all different ranges, it’s about the song more than the genre.

How does taking part in this competition compare to your normal job?
It’s miles apart, performing on live TV means there’s no repeats if you go wrong with your lines.

What scares you most: the thought of singing live or the judges’ comments?
Definitely the thought of singing live – so many things can go wrong…

Other than the vocal training have you been doing any of your own preparations?
Not really, just drinking lots of water.

Would you have applied for the X Factor if you weren’t famous?
Probably..yes!

Are you in it to win it or is it the taking part that counts?!
It’s the taking part that counts, it’s not always the person with the best voice that wins. You’ve just got to enjoy it, as long as I don’t go out on the first show.

What other projects are you currently working on?
I’ve just finished ‘New Street Law’, and drama and currently attending auditions.