ONE of the stars of The X Factor popped into a Cwmbran residential home to entertain the residents in support of a breast cancer charity.

Russell Jones from Sebastopol has made it through to the six chair challenge stage of the ITV singing show, and will perform again this coming weekend.

The former Only Boys Aloud performer visited Fairwater’s Ty Gwyn Residential Home on Thursday, October 6 for a fundraising Afternoon Tea for Breast Cancer Care.

he 25-year-old said: “I’ve always loved coming here to Ty Gwyn and have had fun with the residents for many years.

“I get so much back from the residents an hour is not long enough, I’m more than happy to spend a couple of hours.”

“The therapy of music gives the residents so much, I like to make them feel special and feel at home with my music.”

His visit was the latest event in Ty Gwyn’s packed programme of activities which are all designed to help residents stay active, healthy and well.

Resident Pat Krukowitcz, 84, said: “I’ve been to many shows in my life, Tom Jones, Rolling Stones to name a few, but he was the best entertainer I have ever seen, better than them hands down.

“He was outstanding with the older people and his rapport with all the residents is amazing.

“For a young lad, Russell, to remember the names of so many residents and then sing to a 99-year-old, hold hands and sing to someone who can’t walk or talk, encouraging ladies up dancing and singing, so it makes their day, that is remarkable.

“He can’t keep still, his dancing legs tickled me pink.

“Russell shows his passion, it oozes out of him and he gives it to everyone else. He is obviously devoted to his singing, the love and care he gives out for such a young person is a talent.

“The afternoon was great, beautiful cakes, lovely chats and great company. Russell is so down to earth you could never get tired of his company. It really was fabulous.”

Many events are open to visitors enabling residents to enjoy them with family and friends and also feel part of the local community.

Ty Gwyn’s activity co-ordinator Rachel Mann said: “Keeping active and feeling part of things is really important for the wellbeing of our residents and they were absolutely thrilled to hear that Russell would be joining us for our Breast Cancer Care fundraiser.

“Russell has been coming to us for many years and we’ve watched him grow.

“When we found out he was going on X Factor, we were all thrilled and we tune in every week. The residents were so pleased to see him on the television.

“Russell is really genuine and has developed a great rapport with our residents.

“He has an incredible memory for remembering everyone even down to their favourite songs and you can see how much this means to them. He really has a special talent.

“Everyone at Ty Gwyn is looking forward to cheering Russell on this Saturday and we hope he will come back and see us again soon.”

The X Factor is on Saturday, October 14 at 8.15pm and Sunday, October 15 at 7pm.