X FACTOR star Che Chesterman has paid a visit to his old college to thank his tutors for helping him kick start his music career.

Che,19, from Laindon studied a BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma in Music Practice at South Essex College’s Southend campus and said he would not be where he was today had it not been for the help and dedication from his talented tutors.

He said: “I really have a lot to thank the college and my tutors for.

"Without them there is no way I would be where I am today.

"The course really helped shape me into a more confident, able and all round performer.

"My tutors always pushed me to achieve and supported me so I wanted to personally thank them for helping me get to where I am today.”

Che quit his job as a shelf stacker at Tesco, in Mandeville Way, Langdon Hills, earlier this year to focus on music.

His visit to the college came just a few days before his wowed the nation with his rendition of James Brown’s classic hit This is a Man’s World- bagging him a seat on the six chair challenge.

The impressive performance won him a standing ovation from all four X Factor judges.

Che said: “Whatever happens on The X Factor , I will always remember it, it has been an amazing experience and it will help me achieve my dream of becoming a musician.”

Hayley Hill, music technology curriculum manager, said she was extremely proud of his achievements.

She said: “It’s really lovely when students come back and tell us how they’re getting on and we are really proud to have been a part of Che’s journey. We can’t wait to see how he gets on in the next round and hopefully we will see him in the live shows!”