JAHMENE has been supported by thousands of people across the town who were voting for him throughout the weekend.

And they all agreed what an asset he is to the town – and that he’s guaranteed to have a successful career despite coming second.

Shirley Ludford, station manager of Swindon 105.5, who was a judge when Jahmene won Swindon’s Got Talent 2012, said: “He has come so far and is a fantastic talent. He is still a winner in himself, with his family and with Swindon.

“Even though he hasn't won he has still got a great future because he is a huge talent.

“What is important is that he has stayed true to himself through out the whole competition."”

After setting Jahmene on the road to stardom, Fiona Simpson, an enrichment co-ordinator at New College, is certain Jahmene will still be a huge success.

“To see what Jahmene has achieved is fantastic,” she said. “He thoroughly deserved to have got to the final two with such a ‘Jah-mazing’ voice.

“I hope he now inspires and motivates all the young people out there who want to achieve their dreams.

“Whatever happens now he has made it.

“Myself and everyone at New College are very proud of him and I hope he doesn’t forget us.”

Swindon's politicians have also passed on their best wishes to the singing sensation.

Swindon South MP Robert Buckland said: “I firmly believe that, like many other X Factor runners-up, Jahmene will forge a successful musical career.

“He has been such a positive role model and has shown the world Swindon's positive face.

“We are all very proud of him."

Swindon North MP Justin Tomlinson said: “Jahmene’s sensational performances have captured the nation’s heart – Swindon is exceptionally proud of our X Factor star finalist.”

And council leader Rod Bluh said: “I think he has done fantastically well and he is a huge credit to Swindon.

“I think previous acts like Olly Murs have shown that is not all about the winning and I am sure he will have a fantastic career.”