TWO Southampton youngsters have had their first taste of pop stardom after being selected to sing with Martine McCutcheon.

Talented Jonathon Van Dijk, 12, and ten-year-old Joseph Wright were picked from 500 young hopefuls to back the ex-EastEnder in her latest single in aid of Children in Need.

They were chosen as part of a 100-strong choir from all over the country to provide backing vocals for the song called Love Me which is due to be released on November 22.

The pair have already appeared on Newsround and they will also sing live alongside Martine on BBC's Children in Need night on November 26.

Starstruck Jonathon and Joseph said they both could not believe it when they received a telephone call saying their auditions had been successful.

The EastEnders fans travelled to recording studios in Wembley to rehearse and tape the song. For Jonathon, of Mayfield Road, Swaythling, it was his first taste of fame. The Red Lodge pupil said: "I burst into tears when I found out that is how shocked I was. I was nervous about recording the song.

"I got a kiss and cuddle from Martine. She is lovely and very pretty."

Joseph, who has already performed at the Mayflower, said: "I was overwhelmed when I got the news. I thought if I got in it would be a fluke. I have never done a pop record before and I've always dreamed of doing one. Martine is very cheerful and likes to have lots of fun."

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