Brian May has shown his support for one of this year's X Factor finalists by likening her spirit to that of the late Freddie Mercury. 

Speaking to The Sun newspaper, the iconic guitarist of Queen explained that he has great admiration for the style and aplomb of contestant Kitty Brucknell, who has been the talking point of this year's show since her performance of Lady Gaga's 'The Edge of Glory' at the auditions. 

He had a special message for her and explained that the people who tear her down are the same ones who are jealous of her talents:

"Kitty, try looking at what they said about Freddie Mercury when we started out. Jealousy is a powerful emotion — it turns people into beasts. They are all wishing they were you." 

He also acknowledged her rendition of Queen's 'Who Wants To Live Forever' and said, "thank you, Kitty, for putting your heart into it in such an individual way. Go Kitty!"

Watch video footage of Brucknell before her X Factor journey began here: