A KIDDERMINSTER firefighter set the X Factor stage alight as he stormed into the next round of the ITV talent contest.

Richard Ryan, 25, dazzled the biggest crowd he has ever performed for in London at his X Factor audition – despite the misgivings of the show’s resident judge Simon Cowell.

The Kidderminster contestants’ audition was aired on ITV last Saturday night (September 15), where he gave a fiery rendition of rock hit I believe in a Thing Called Love by The Darkness which won the approval of judges Robbie Williams, Ayda Williams, and One Direction star Louis Tomlinson.

Robbie praised Richard’s performance, saying that he “loved” the singer’s voice.

However, the singer’s performance faced criticism from long-time judge Simon Cowell, who failed to give Ryan the thumbs up – prompting an argument with fellow host Robbie Williams and booing from crowd at the SSE Arena, Wembley.

Despite the no vote from Simon, the on-call firefighter will now go to the Judges deliberation round of the competition to see which contestants will gain a place on the Six Chair Challenge.

Richard, who attended Baxter College in Kidderminster, has been performing for most of his life, taking part in amateur dramatics at the Rose Theatre, and singing at events in the area.

Richard said: “When I first walked onto the stage I thought ‘wow’ – it’s the biggest audience I’ve performed for by a long shot.

“I was nervous at first, but it was such a good crowd, and as soon as I started singing I was in my element.

“It was nice to meet the judges and get their feedback – I had no idea what to expect.

“I didn’t mind the criticism from Simon and I took quite a bit away from the experience.”

Supporting Richard on the day was his ‘number one fan’, his nanny Pat, who was backstage with presenter Dermot O'Leary.

Richard said: “My nan told me it was the best day of her life.”

He added: “I’m thankful for all the fantastic support from Kidderminster, I’ve received hundreds of messages from people and it’s been lovely.”

To see Richard rock the X Factor stage, click here.