It's a year since karaoke singer 'Big John' Humphries felt the rough edge of Simon Cowell's tongue on The X Factor, but that hasn't stopped him going back for another shot at stardom.

The 50-year-old, unemployed entertainer/local celebrity, from Sorrel Road, Blackbird Leys, Oxford, first made his mark on the popular television talent show last year, singing his signature track, Eye of the Tiger by Survivor.

Sadly, that time round, Simon Cowell questioned his ability and told him 'cheerio'. But with a new repetoire of songs, honed in Oxford's karaoke bars, he has now passed the audition for the new series and on June 2 will once more come before the judges.

Mr Humphries said: "It's at the Wembley Conference Centre, I'll be singing I Believe in a Thing called Love by The Darkness and I'm determined to give it my best shot.

"I have been practising a lot, doing karaoke five nights a week at places like Yates' and Shout and I've got loads more confidence -- I just want to get through to the final and be famous."

Accompanying him on his all-important trip to London, will be his wife and 'number one fan', Kathleen, 51.

"I'm excited and nervous," he said. "But Simon Cowell doesn't scare me and if, like last time, he asks me to look him in the eyes and tell him I'm serious about singing, I'll walk up to his desk and tell him so." The X Factor is a cross between Opportunity Knocks and Pop Idol, with contestants invited to showcase their talents in a knockout-style show. First prize is a recording contract and possible stardom. Last year's winner, Steve Brookstein, saw his debut album Heart and Soul go straight to the top of the UK charts when it was released last week. But on Sunday, it slipped to number five.

Mr Humphries said: "I've got my outfit sorted out -- I'll be wearing a dark blue shirt, black trousers and plimsolls and I'm just going to do my best," he said.

"I don't know exactly which famous singer I'm most like -- although someone did compare me to Frank Sinatra once."

He added: "I was gutted when I didn't get through last year, but I've got a lot of support this time around. I've also got a few dance moves to perform, so I'm just keeping my fingers crossed."

The X Factor will be on ITV1 later this year.