It was tears for X Factor contestants Stereo Kicks featuring Dartford’s Charlie Jones when their bid to win a place in next week’s semi finals saw them lose out in a sing off with ‘best friend’ Lauren Platts.

The eight piece sang their hearts out with I Won’t Give Up – a well titled song to keep them in the game - but Lauren clinched it when the audience voted to save her after she resorted to her favourite audition song, I Know Where I’ve Been.

Despite giving it their all, it wasn’t enough for Louis Walsh’s group of 14 to 20 year olds, and after having their hopes dashed, they refused to let their fans down, promising they will be staying together.

As well as nerve wracking performances from all the contestants, the audience was treated to three appearances by guest performers Adam Lambert and Queen, Ellie Anderson and Union J.

The show show started off with all the usual glitz and glamour with an extra dusting of pre-Christmas sparkle from judges Cheryl and Mel B.

Andrea was the first act up, followed by Fleur and Ben but by almost 8.30pm it was clear Stereo Kicks were in trouble and they had to pin their hopes on a final song.

Lauren said: "I'm gutted to be going up against my best friends. But it's got to be done."

Christian Guiltenane tweeted: “Interesting that although @StereoKicks are in the bottom two, their songs are selling more than the rest of the contestants’ downloads.”

And comedian Alan Carr was torn. “Damn - really love Lauren. And I love Stereokicks!”

Simon urged both acts: "Believe that you can win the whole competition even though you're in the bottom two."

But, despite vocalising their positive mantra singing ‘I Won’t Give Up’, it wasn’t enough to convince the audience, spelling their last performance on the X Factor stage.

It wasn't sour grapes though. In their exit interview on the Xtra Factor, they admitted Lauren sang well and tipped Ben to be the 2014 X Factor winner.