A JOURNALISM graduate appeared on hit TV show The X Factor at the weekend but was left “devastated” after not making the live finals.

Sharna Allen, of Kyrkeby in Letchworth GC, was seen performing as part of The Lovettes in front of judge Tulisa from hip hop group N-Dubz and singer Jessie J, in an ITV1 show aired on Saturday.

The 21-year-old was paired with Chess Leigh and Melissa Foster after making it through boot camp, and the trio were one of eight acts from the groups category to make it through to the judges’ houses stage.

It was revealed on Sunday that the girl band - following a performance at Tulisa’s holiday home in Greece - would not be one of the four groups picked to go through to the live shows on ITV1.

Speaking afterwards, Sharna, who studied journalism at the University of Bedfordshire, revealed that the decision to audition for the singing competition was influenced by fellow university student Rosie Benjamin, who made it to boot camp, and her degree.

“I was doing my dissertation on The X Factor and how it was portrayed in the British media,” she said.

“I always wanted to audition but I never had the guts. Then I decided to have a go. I thought it would give me a chance to get an insight into The X Factor.”

About performing in front of popstar Jessie J, Sharna said: “Jessie J is one of our idols so it was very nerve wracking. We were absolutely devastated to be sent home but the whole X Factor experience has been amazing and we will never forget it.”

Regarding the future of The Lovettes, she added: “We plan on staying together - we have had interest from a producer in America and hopefully it will be good for us. I always knew I wanted to sing.”