'X Factor's Joe had medicine ambition

X Factor star Joe McElderry once dreamed of a career in medicine, it has been revealed.

The 18-year-old singer wanted to become a doctor or paramedic before he discovered his musical talents, the Shields Gazette reports.

McElderry, who is now a performing arts student, carried out his work experience at Durham University Hospital four years ago as part of his ambition.

His aunt Chris Schofield, who is a Sister at the hospital, explained: "Joe loved his work experience. He's a very caring person anyway, so for him to want to do that kind of job was no surprise."

Discussing the X Factor finalists' recent visit to Great Ormond Street Hospital in London, she continued: "I told him just to imagine the happiness he would bring and just to keep smiling.

"He said they were so welcoming because they were all watching the show. He told me he felt so emotional inside, but knew he was bringing them a little bit of joy, so just kept on smiling."

McElderry is mentored by Girls Aloud star Cheryl Cole on the ITV1 programme. He has so far managed to avoid the bottom two every week.