Council staff are backing Matt Cardle to win this year’s X Factor.

Braintree Council threw its support behind Witham lad Olly Murs, who came second in last year’s contest, and is doing the same for Little Maplestead’s most famous painter and decorator.

Chairman Tony Shelton said: “We supported Olly Murs last year and we are proud to be supporting this local lad and wish him all the luck for the final.”