X Factor winner Matt has fulfilled dream, says mum

A Maidstone family are ecstatic and dumbfounded their after singing star son, Matt Terry, sensationally won The X Factor.

Speaking from their Sutton Road home, dad Bob, mum Sharon and brothers Ben and Joe beamed with pride as they spoke about the moment Matt wowed with his pitch-perfect renditions of Randy Crawford classic, One Day I’ll Fly Away and Prince’s Purple Rain.

Sharon, 54, said: “He is incredibly intelligent and could have done anything but this was his dream and he went for it. ”

Growing up the 23-year-old loved to sing along to Jessie J and Britney Spears, and while his family realised he was talented they had no idea what the future would bring,

Matt, who was born in Bromley but grew up in Spain, began to realise his remarkable talent when he met singing teacher, Janet, who repeatedly said to mum Sharon: “You do know how good he is?”

The family relocated to Maidstone in 2011, and a scholarship at D&B Academy in Bromley followed. Matt then began to think about auditioning for X Factor.

Bob, a 52-year-old construction worker, said the judges’ houses were his favourite part and was not afraid to show emotion as his son went through each round.

Joe, 18, who is studying at Mid Kent College, knew his talented brother would make the live shows but the final was still a jittery time – a huge leap from when he used to annoy his siblings with his constant singing.

The family say they know he will remain grounded.

“He would do anything for anyone. He got on so well with everyone on the show – he is such a good soul,” said Sharon.

The community has rallied around Matt with youngsters even posting cards through the door to wish him well.

After meeting the likes of Kylie, Little Mix and the judges, it’s back to reality for the family with Sharon returning to her NHS job in Coxheath this week.

For Matt, who received 48.5% of the public vote against Finnish finalist Saara Aalto, it’s a host of interviews before the X Factor tour.