[Harry!]

http://www.myparkmag.co.uk/

Mild-mannered Rhydian Roberts has admitted that he is glad he did not win this year's X Factor.

Speaking to the Sun, the Welsh warbler expressed his relief at not having to release When You Believe - because he thinks it would have been rubbished by critics.

What's more, Rhyd said he did not care for the track nor did he rate winner Leon Jackson's version, which topped the charts this Christmas.

At 25, Rhydian is seven years older than Leon and was heavily tipped to win X Factor. Complaints were made to broadcasting watchdog Ofcom when Leon was crowned as the viewers' favourite, although Rhyd said they actually get on "relatively well".

"It could not have happened to a nicer guy," he explained, going on to hint at future projects he has been offered.

"Things will be announced soon," Rhyd added, amid speculation he would play the lead in a sequel to Phantom of the Opera.

Meanwhile, Leon is enjoying overnight success as the holder of this year's festive number one single, alongside previous X Factor champ Leona Lewis.

Her debut LP, Spirit, sat at the top of the album chart after six weeks on release.