Immigration officers investigate Burke's half brother

Immigration officials are investigating 'X-Factor' winner Alexandra Burke’s half brother after receiving allegations that he is working illegally in Britain, sources said today.

Travoir Burke is reportedly working as a cleaner despite not having the proper permission.

The Sun reported today that Mr Burke earns £6 (€6.84) an hour at a cleaning agency after coming to the UK from Jamaica in 2003.

He shares a father with the reality TV star Alexandra and has a three-year-old daughter in Britain, the newspaper said.

A spokeswoman for the UK Border Agency said: “Abuse of the UK’s immigration system will not be tolerated. Illegal immigrants will be found and removed from the country. We remove someone every eight minutes.

“We are cracking down on illegal working because it undercuts honest UK businesses. Dodgy bosses will have their premises raided and could face a fine of up to £10,000 (€11,402) per illegal worker they hire. Illegal workers will be arrested and removed from the UK.”

A spokesman for Miss Burke said: “Travoir is Alexandra’s half brother who she sees occasionally. Alexandra knows nothing of the legalities of Travoir’s Visa status or any work he has carried out whilst in the UK.”

Last week, the star’s mother, Melissa Bell, denied claims that she has been paid money for singing at gigs while still receiving disability and income support benefit payments.

The former Soul II Soul singer said she was “outraged” at the allegations.