COULD you be the next Matt Cardle or Olly Murs?

X Factor producers have announced they will be sending a mobile audition van to Colchester, on Thursday, May 10.

Essex boy Olly has encouraged would-be pop stars to follow in his footsteps and try out for the show.

He said: “It’s fantastic news X Factor auditions are coming to Colchester this year.

“It’s a great opportunity for all the undiscovered talent in Essex to give it a go.

“Anyone who goes for it should put in lots of practice and really think about an audition song that suits their voice.

“You’ve only got a couple of minutes to impress, so you’ve got to make it count. Come on Essex!”

The mobile auditions allow budding artists to try out in towns and cities where the arena auditions tour doesn’t reach.

Essex has already had great success in the ITV talent show, with Matt Cardle, from Little Maplestead, taking the crown in 2010, and Olly, from Witham, who was a runner-up in 2009.

However, those hoping to catch a glimpse of judge Gary Barlow will have to hope they get through to the next round as would-be singers will be trying out in front of a panel of producers.

The X Factor van’s location has yet to be confirmed, but people can turn up on the day to try out.

Thousands are expected to sing in the van between 9.30am and 5pm in a bid to get through to the televised auditions in front of the celebrity judges.

Fans of the show can follow the action from the mobile auditions via @TheXFactor or facebook.com/TheXFactor