'X Factor' star Alan backed by mother

X Factor star Alan Turner has been defended by his mother following claims that he tried to deceive viewers.

In his original audition, which aired in August, the aspiring singer told the judges that he had been in foster care since the age of four. He also said that he was desperate to be accepted by his real parents.

The 23-year-old's father Alan Turner Snr. later told the press that his son was being dishonest, but X Factor chiefs vowed to stand by him.

Alan's mother Debbie has now backed her son's claims, admitting that she shirked her parental responsibilities for years and regrets her behaviour.

"I don't know his favourite colour. I don't know his favourite meal. I wasn't a mother to him," Debbie told The Sun. "I wasn't there for him when he was ill or sad. If you added up the time I spent with him up until now it would be less than six months. When he said he didn't know his 'real mum or dad' that is what he meant."

Turner added: "I did nothing wrong. People said I apologised to X Factor and begged to stay in, but that's not true. I did nothing wrong. I told the truth and the people on X Factor know that.

"The only really good thing that has come out of this row is that my mum and I are now going to be a proper family for the first time."

Turner is grilled over the allegations by his mentor Simon Cowell in tonight's episode of the ITV1 talent show.