X Factor 2013: Homeless Hannah Barrett’s performance moves judging panel

Saturday night’s launch of The X Factor 2013 in the UK certainly didn’t disappoint when it came to unearthing a wealth of incredible new talent.

One of the most emotional performances of the night came from 17-year-old student Hannah Barrett, who broke down in tears as she spoke to judges Gary Barlow, Nicole Scherzinger, Sharon Osbourne and Louis Walsh.

Hannah Barrett said: “I wanna be the UK’s sweetheart. I like the A-levels I’m doing at school, it’s OK. I work in Gregg’s part-time, but my dream has always been to be a singer.

“My dad passed away a couple of years ago and my dad was my inspiration from a young age with music. My mum is supportive of me but we have a tough relationship.

“Me and my mum don’t really get along, eventually I was kicked out and so basically I live in accommodation for young teenagers. I’m happy being there but it’s not home.”

After moving Sharon Osbourne and Nicole Scherzinger to tears with her touching rendition of Read All About It, Sharon hugged her warmly, telling her: “I want you to do something for me. I want you to work on your performance.

“It’s tough competition and we want you to get through to the next round. You moved me, I love you. Your dad would be proud of you, you’ve got old school soul.”

Nicole Scherzinger added: “I’m speechless, you’re gorgeous when you sing. I’m blown away by you. Honey, I believe you. You are going all the way. This is just the beginning for you.”

Gary Barlow gushed: “It’s one thing to sing a song but it’s another to tell a story through your performance. I felt the pain within you and it really touched me.”

Also impressing were Alejandro Fernandez, 17, and Tom Mann, 19, a part-time football coach for kids.