Rhydian "clams up" around women

X Factor contestant Rhydian Roberts has never had a serious girlfriend.

The Welsh singer, who is favourite to win the contest following memorable performances of 'The Phantom of the Opera' and 'You Raise Me Up', has always struggled with shyness around women.

"He doesn't go out much - and I don't remember him ever having a proper relationship. He used to impress the girls at our local karaoke with his Tom Jones renditions," Rhydian's friend Owen Evans told the Sunday Mirror. "They'd love him on stage - but when he came back to the bar he'd clam up completely.

"I wouldn't like to be the one to say if he's still a virgin. I can't say he's not. He's certainly never had a serious girlfriend - and he is also a committed Christian. But he's a gentleman who respects women and I guess he's waiting for the right person. He never drinks or smokes and is obsessed by his fitness."

Owen added: "He has always been his own man. He doesn't care what other people think and he will never change."