A Wiltshire-based soldier may not be able to sing but he can lay claim to having a certain X Factor.

WO2 Alan Charnley, based at Bulford, is related to one of the finalists appearing in the massively popular Saturday night TV talent show.

Alan, from 206 Signal Squadron part of 3 (UK) Division, whose 15-year Army service includes tours in Afghanistan, Iraq, and Bosnia, is first cousin to Diana Vickers.

The two grew up just six miles part in Accrington, Lancashire, where Alan witnessed the 17-year-old’s fledgling showbiz career.

“At Christmas Diana would put on dance shows and was always doing performances,” the 32-year-old remembers.

“The first I heard about her appearing on X Factor was a phone call from my dad.

"Now I sit down and watch it with my wife and three children and then vote for her.

"For my eldest Bethany it’s amazing and it’s all around her school. Diana’s also a favourite with 206 Signal Squadron and they are keeping tabs of her weekly performances.”

Diana and the other X Factor Finalists have released a cover version of Mariah Carey’s 1993 classic “Hero” to raise funds for the Help for Heroes charity based in Tidworth and also the Poppy Appeal.

The 17-year-old admits the single, which has already gone to number one, has a very personal attachment for her.

“As I grew up I was very aware that Alan was often away on deployment and I was worried about him,” she said.

“People think what I do is amazing but it’s not compared to the Army. I think serving your country is amazing and I couldn’t put my life in jeopardy I’m not brave enough.”

Alan, who is very proud of Diana’s fundraising, is also doing his bit for Help for Heroes.

Over Remembrance weekend he and 24 other soldiers from 206 Signal Squadron will be in the North East.

They will hold a quiz, an auction of sports memorabilia, and hold a street collection.

They will also parade and collect funds at Sunderland Football Club when they entertain Portsmouth in the Premiership.

The Signallers hope to reach a target of £10,000.