Leona "overwhelmed" by US success

Rex Features

Leona Lewis has said her success in the US is "beyond her wildest dreams".

The X Factor winner reached number one on the Billboard chart this week with 'Bleeding Love'.

She is the first British female artist to top the Billboard Hot 100 since Kim Wilde scored a hit with 'You Keep Me Hangin' On' in 1987.

The 22-year-old wrote on her website: "Well I really don't know what to say, I'm so overwhelmed right now. I'm getting to share my music with people around the world and it's beyond my wildest dreams.

"From the bottom of my heart thank u all so much, it's because of you that I am able to do this."

She revealed that her mum had cried when she called home with the news, adding: "It was so sweet. They're coming to visit me in New York and we're all going to celebrate because it's also my birthday when I'm there.

"I'm still in LA at the moment so I'm going to make sure I find time to celebrate here too. Once again I can't thank everyone enough for this incredible support."