Asperger's sufferer tipped for singing stardom

A man with Asperger’s syndrome - who has barely left his house in seven years - is being tipped to win ‘The X Factor’.

Judges were dazzled by 21-year-old Scott James’ performance of ‘You Raise Me Up’ and show boss Simon Cowell even halted auditions to go backstage and congratulate the aspiring singer.

James' vocal coach, Linzi Hunter, revealed: “The audience went nuts after his performance and Simon called me up on stage to speak about Scott and his singing.

“After his audition, Simon came backstage and shook our hands and said how brilliant Scott was.”

The music mogul is said to be taking extra precautions with James' health following criticism of the lack of support given to Susan Boyle - who became a worldwide sensation after appearing on ‘Britain’s Got Talent’ but ended up in The Priory rehabilitation clinic after losing the final of the show.

Hunter added: “He did seem quite concerned about Scott and asked me how I thought he would cope if we got further into the competition. But Scott has taken it all in his stride.”

Her partner Mike Frankland added: “He’s a normal lad. He just lacks certain social skills and is a bit reclusive. Mentally he is very intelligent and a stunningly good singer. No matter what you give him he can sing it.”

Asperger’s Syndrome is a form of autism which causes sufferers to struggle when interacting with others.