BEXLEY’S Sam Bailey is just one step away from being crowned the winner of The X Factor after surviving the first night of this weekend’s final.

Last night (Dec 14) kicked off this year’s two-part final where Luke Friend came third after receiving the fewest votes after two performances by each finalist.

Now, the only obstacle that remains for the 36-year-old, who remains the bookies' favourite, is Scottish teen Nicholas McDonald.

Having made it to very last stage, Sam is more determined than ever to take the title.

She said: “I have been waiting for this moment my whole life. Nothing is going to stop me now. I want this so much.”

The mother-of-two, who grew up in Eynsford Road in Bexley Village, wowed the 10,000-strong audience and judges at Wembley Arena with her version of Lady Gaga’s Edge of Glory.

After her performance, she said: “I’m absolutely buzzing. This is what I was meant to do all those years ago and I’m here now and I’m not gonna let go.”

Mentor Sharon Osbourne told Sam: “You made it, you are here and I tell you what, forget girl power, it’s about woman power.

“Woman power and hard work have got you here and I just hope that your fans back you for one more week to get you through. Please one more week.”

And it wouldn't be an X Factor final without shedding a few tears - and that's what happened when Sam's grandmother Rita made a surprise appearance and delivered an emotional tribute to the singer.

Later, judge Nicole Scherzinger joined Sam on stage to belt out And I’m Telling You from Broadway musical Dreamgirls.

Of Sam’s chances, Nicole added: “This one, I didn’t get to say it, she isn’t standing on the edge of glory, she’s right in the middle of glory.

“And she was an honour to share the stage with. I love you Sam.”

As well as a record deal, this year’s winner will support Beyonce on the UK leg of the Mrs Carter tour in February 2014. 

If Sam Bailey takes the crown tonight, she’ll be the first over-25 act to win since Steve Brookstein in series one.

Do you think Sam can win The X Factor tonight? Show your support in the comments below.