X Factor auditions arrive in Newcastle

Thousands waited several hours to be auditioned for the new series of the X Factor Credit: ITV

After the success of Joe McElderry as well as Jade and Perry from Little Mix, X Factor bosses decided it was time for auditions to return to the North East.

The search got underway at the weekend as the first stage of the X factor auditions came to Newcastle. Thousands from across the region waited several hours to perform in front of the cameras.

It was six years ago since the auditions were last held in our region and it isn't until June when the celebrity judges will come to Newcastle as they wittle down the many thousands who took part in the first stage of the auditions. ITV is yet to announce the celebrity judges for the 2012 X Factor competition.

Emily McNamee from County Durham was one of the many hopeful contenders at Saturday's auditions. She previously reached the first stage of the TV talent contest in 2008 but was voted off in the first of the live shows. She's hoping to have better luck performing as a solo artist.

Those who took part in the auditions held at the Newcastle Metro Radio Arena will find out if they've reached the next stage of the biggest TV talent show in Europe in a few weeks time.

Watch Richard Salkeld's full report here on ITV News Online.

For more information on the new series visit the X Factor website.