X FACTOR finalist Jay James is to support Pixie Lott when she headlines Warrington Festival on September 19.

The former Royal Navy fitness instructor, described by Simon Cowell as a 'genius', will warm up the crowd at Bank Park ahead of Pixie's only north west concert date this year.

Jay was one of the standout contestants on The X Factor 2014 and he has since toured with The X Factor Live, playing to more than 300,000 people across the biggest arenas in the UK and Ireland.

He has also performed to 81,000 people at Twickenham Stadium and wowed the audience at the British Grand Prix at Silverstone.

As well as performing for Warrington Festival, Jay will also be doing a meet and greet with fans on the day.

Jay, from South West Wales, said: "I’m really looking forward to performing at Warrington Festival and meeting with my fans afterwards.

"I love meeting my fans. I really appreciate all their support and it’s a pleasure to be able to meet them in person."

Also gracing the stage will be 17-year-old country singer Ellie Dibben from Lymm.

It has already been a great year for the teenager after making her debut appearance at the Country2Country Festival at The O2.

She has also supported the likes of Union J and Luke Friend and has recently been collaborating with Sam Bailey and The South.

Ellie, who was mentored by Bee Gees legend Robin Gibb before he died, added: "I’m thrilled to be part of the stellar line-up confirmed for Warrington Festival.

"I can’t wait to get out on that stage and perform in front of a great festival crowd this September."

Warrington Festival is a new celebration of sport, culture, music and entertainment with 25 events over 25 days.

Headline act Pixie Lott rose to fame in 2009 with debut album Turn It Up which reached platinum status on the strength of five consecutive top 20 singles.

The 24-year-old has gone on to sell more than four million singles and 1.6 million albums worldwide.

- Tickets for Pixie Lott at Bank Park are £14. Visit warringtonfestival.org or call 442345.

- Visit warringtonfestival.org for updates on events and volunteering and sponsorship opportunities.