The odds were against Watford betting shop assistant, Amy Connelly, on Saturday’s The X Factor show when she was sent home from the competition.

The 25-year-old, whose first audition reduced Cheryl Fernandez-Versini to tears when she gave a “captivating” performance, split the judges’ opinion when she reached the arena round.

Six years ago, Amy’s hopes of making it through to the live finals were crushed when her mentor, Cheryl, decided to not to take her through.

Watford Observer:

Amy impressed Cheryl with her performance

Amy sang Whitney Houston’s Greatest Love of All on Saturday’s show.

But it was not enough to press the judges, with Simon Cowell telling Amy that Cheryl had made the right decision not to put her through in 2008.

He said: “In my opinion, I think Cheryl made the right decision not to put you through. This is when you become exposed, Amy. Being on this big stage with a big song like that.”

Watford Observer:

Judges disagreed whether to let Amy go through

With Mel B and Louis Walsh both saying “no” to Amy, Simon said he was torn between listening to his heart or his head.

The head judge apologised to Amy and said she would not be progressing through to the next round.

Giving Amy a hug on stage, Cheryl said: “I’m proud of you, please don’t cry.”