A UNIVERSITY says it is rooting for X Factor contestants Journey South.

Professor Graham Henderson, vice-chancellor of the University of Teesside, said he wants to see Andrew and Carl Pemberton win.

Their mother, Genda, has worked as a catering assistant in a coffee bar on the Middlesbrough campus for the past three years

Prof Henderson said: "All of us at the University of Teesside send our very best wishes to Andrew and Carl.

"We are very proud of Journey South, both as fellow Teessiders and through our connection with them through their mum.

"We very much hope to see them continue their fantastic performances this weekend and into the final."

Andy, 29, and Carl, 24, will compete for the public's vote on Saturday to help propel them to the final on December 17.

Mrs Pemberton, 53, said: "I would like to thank the university for being so accommodating during the last three months when I have been travelling down for the shows. I really do appreciate it.

"Staff, lecturers and students have all been so nice, saying they have seen the boys on the programme and how they're doing so well. It has been very exciting but this week is so important. I will feel sad for whichever act leaves this Saturday."

The boys performed in the university's Students' Union six years ago as part of their previous band, The Answer.

Their father, Trevor, a retired ICI process operator, said: "This has been a great experience and we have enjoyed every minute.

"We would like to thank everyone for their support; my sons are really upbeat about Saturday. The boys are knocking on the door of the final and we hope this week will be the big one."