A SINGING sensation is coming back into the limelight as he competes in Factor EsseX.

Jacob Norton first hit the TV screens earlier this year when he appeared on the ITV talent show, the Voice Kids.

Jacob, 15, just missed out on a semi-final place and after taking a short break, the Gilberd School student is getting back in the game.

He is taking part in a regional competition called Factor EsseX, similar to the X Factor talent show.

Jacob’s mum, Claire, from Highwoods, Colchester, said: “Jacob has had a bit of a break as it has been a busy time but he has been auditioning for various things and has been offered a place at a young performers company in London for musical theatre and singing.

He thought he would give Factor EsseX a go, he spent a whole day in Basildon going through an audition process which was a bit like the X Factor boot camp.

“He had to sing and take part in group activities, and they whittled it down to 40 people. It’s a bit of a boost for him.”

The competition takes place between now and November 25. It will see four groups of ten youngsters perform against each other to earn points from voters.

Each team is headed by a mentor, with Jacob’s being singer Danielle Fairchild.

The contestants will perform on October 28, November 4, 11 and 18, with the grand final being on November 25. Each show is held at the Springhouse Club in Corringham and the grand final will be held at the Civic Hall in Grays.

Claire added: “It’s a great experience for him. It’s not about the winning, it’s about taking part and enjoying it.”

Jacob will also get to record a charity single Fight Song as part of the show.

Friends and family can vote during each show via Facebook.

Jacob will receive one point for every 100 votes, and he can receive up to 10 points per week. The winner will be the contestant with the most points at the end with the prize of a recording contract.

To find out more visit Factor EsseX on Facebook.