And the X Factor winner 2011 is....
(07.11.2011)

We are now down to the last 7 in the X Factor, in what has been one of the closest competitions for some time.

Yesterday we saw the departure of The Risk, who attracted the lowest number of votes, and Johnny Robinson, who lost out on the sing off with Kitty Brucknell. Johnny was a very likeable guy with a nice voice (even if it was a little unusual), but from a commercial point of view, Kitty was always going to be the judges choice.

Some may be a little surprised that Frankie Cocozza has survived as long as he has, but no doubt this will be rectified next week. Frankie reminds me of something from the seventies, but without the voice. In truth, he is probably surprised he didn't go home last week.

The favourite for the competition is now Marcus Collins (replacing Janet Devlin) and he certainly has talent (he sings, dances and has a nice smile), but it would be difficult to ignore Craig Colton. Craig has a really great voice and has been consistent in his performances (and their quality) and his only worry might be his image. He reminds me very much of Rick Astley (he couldn't dance either) and could become equally successful.

Little Mix certainly have an excellent chance of making money after the competition, but I don't see them winning it. But as we have seen in the past, you don't have to come first to become rich and famous.

Misha B has a powerful voice, but her earlier performances have made her appear somewhat arrogant and this is likely to be costly in the next 2-3 weeks.

Kitty Brucknell has her crazy moments, but there is no question she has ability. Unfortunately, the public are a little divided on their support for her and this may stop her from getting into the last 3.

This leaves Janet Devlin, who has an unusual style (although not unique), but has the face of an angel, so that will surely help with the voting.

I must admit that Janet was my early favourite, but Craig Colton's voice is something you could listen to for much longer and this is who I think will be the winner of X Factor. Second place will be close between Janet and Marcus. I see Misha B coming fourth, followed by Kitty, Little Mix and the boy with no voice Frankie last of all.

The bookies currently have Marcus favourite at 9/4, Janet is second favourite at 3/1, closely followed by Craig at 7/2. Misha B is 9/2, Little Mix 6/1, Kitty is a generous 25/1 and Frankie is a not so generous 50/1.