HEADING into college after making it through to the next round of the X Factor was a surreal experience for talented teenager Katie Hammond from Stockton Heath.

The 17-year-old singer, who is a member of Girl Next Door, was forced to keep her lips sealed after being put through to the six chair challenge on the ITV series in the summer.

Many weeks have since passed since filming took place and she has remained tight-lipped about the outcome.

"It was filmed in July and I haven't really told anyone other than my close friends and family," said the former Bridgewater High and Broomfields Junior School pupil.

"I was walking into class on the Monday and teachers were telling me they had seen me on the TV.

"I was really embarrassed but everyone has been really supportive.

"I don't know many people at the college but I have met so many new people because they have seen me on the TV and come over to say ‘well done’.”

Katie, who is currently studying at Sir John Deane's Sixth Form College in Northwich, battled it out in bootcamp alongside fellow band members Britani Humphries, 17, from Widnes, Saskia Rosimus, 19, from Bolton and Annabelle Pike, 17, from Preston.

Warrington Guardian:

Pictured: Girl Next Door at bootcamp

Despite the no-expense-spared party laid on by music mogul Simon Cowell on the first day of bootcamp, Katie and the other members were determined to put this time to good use.

“We wanted to make sure we were prepared for the next day so we were rehearsing, making sure we were prepared and had enough rest,” said Katie, who always dreamed of becoming a singer from an early age.

“It was very tiring and emotional but luckily we found ourselves with an amazing group of people to work with.”

Tune in on Saturday to watch The X Factor at 8pmt to find out if Girl Next Door get through to the judges' houses.

Warrington Guardian:

Pictured: Katie Hammond