12:09PM, Sat Sep 1, 2012

Newcastle X Factor Reject Billy Moore: 'I Want To Prove I Can Sing'

By Andy Hughes Location: Newcastle

VIDEO: X Factor reject Billy Moore sings for Sky Tyne and Wear

X Factor reject Billy Moore has hit back at talent show judges after his excruciating prime time television humiliation.

The 41-year-old blamed stage fright for his failure to hit the high notes in front of judges Nicole Scherzinger, Gary Barlow, Louis Walsh and Tulisa Contostavlos.

Jobless Billy, of Throckley, Newcastle, called in to the Sky Tyne and Wear offices near St James' Park to set the record straight.

Singing acapella he belted out a version of his favourite song - 'With Your Love' by 1980's rock giants Journey.

Passers by stopped and stared as they recognised the aspiring solo artist's distinctive vocals.

Posing for pictures with fans, Billy said: "I just want people to take me seriously. I want people to realise that I really can sing."

Nicole Scherzinger branded Newcastle a 'TFZ'

During the show, Mr Moore admitted he was 'killing' his rendition of 'Don't Stop Believin'.

He was disappointed with his exit following his audition, and wanted to prove to people that he could sing.

Nicole Scherzinger went on to brand Newcastle a "TFZ" or 'Talent Free Zone'.

The former Pussycat Doll also criticised the Geordie accent on the hit TV show, claiming she couldn't understand what the northern hopefuls were saying.

She said: "I came from Los Angeles for this... I expected more from Newcastle."

Scherzinger replaced Cheryl Cole during last year's auditions.