Katie Johnson

Journey South are brothers Carl, 24, and Andy Pemberton, 29, from Middlesbrough. It was Carl who started singing and playing gigs, then Andy decided to join him to form a duo. They come from a close-knit family who have supported them all the way.

Five years ago, Andy left his job and Carl quit his plumbing apprenticeship, three months before the end of it's term. They bought a caravan with their credit card and set off for London. It was at this point they changed their name to Journey South, as that was exactly what they intended to do.

The X Factor

In 2005, they went to an audition for the second series of The X Factor. They wowed the judges and received three yes's. Their category, the Groups, were allocated to Simon Cowell, who became both a friend and mentor to Journey South. He describes them as "the nicest people [he has] ever met".

On Saturday 17 December 2005, Journey South came third in The X Factor. Both boys said that it meant "everything" to be in the finals of The X Factor, and how proud they are to have their family watch them live on stage.

Just before Christmas, Journey South signed a record contract after receiving offers from five record companies. They eventually chose the one they felt most comfortable with - Syco Music, on Simon Cowell's label.

The Album

The debut album, Journey South, was released on Monday 20 March. It received great reviews and shot straight to number one on Mothers Day, with Andy Abraham's (X Factor second place) debut album entering at two.

The Interview

They joined BBC Hereford & Worcester's Katie Johnson where they talked about the album, their plans, and their relationship with Simon Cowell.