FORMER X-Factor contestants G4 are heading to Wirral later this year as part of a tour marking 20 years in the limelight.

The vocal harmony group - labelled 'The Kings of Popera!’ - is at The Floral Pavilion in New Brighton on June 26.

They have been wowing audiences with their incredible harmonies and stunning vocals ever since appearing on the first series of the X Factor in 2004, finishing second in the competition.

Their unique blend of classical training alongside a pioneering approach to popular classics has seen them earn thousands of fans all over the world.

As part of the group’s new chapter they are delighted to welcome Britain's Got Talent winner, Jai McDowall, into the fold.

Looking forward to the tour, band member Jonathan Mark Ansell told the Globe: "It's incredible that we're celebrating the big 20. I never dreamed we'd still be doing this after 20 years, so we are really looking forward to it. 

"We're so grateful to the fans that have kept with us since the early days."

During the show, the band will look back upon their journey and perform songs from their forthcoming 20th Anniversary studio album. It will also feature their renditions of Queen's Bohemian Rhapsody, Radiohead's Creep and Nessun Dorma.

On their longevity, Jonathan said: "Part of our success and reason why we're still here, in an industry where so many groups fall by the wayside, is that that we're not afraid to take risks.

"The fact that we got away with our version of Creep by Radiohead on the X-Factor is proof of what we can do. X-Factor panellist Louis Walsh was apprehensive about it at the time, but it worked.

"We're looking forward to showcasing the new album on tour. It's all covers, but it's a lovely mix of songs.

"We've always been keen on putting our stamp on other people's work and this album will show that. It will take us to what we would do if we were on The X-Factor this year. There's a versatile mix of stuff on it and we can't wait for people to hear it."

What about Jonathan's advice for people pursuing a music career?

"If you have a talent to write songs, showcase it - record it and put it out there on social media," he added.

"When I was in music college I never had a fall back plan. I always said that if the music career didn't work out, I would figure out what to do afterwards."

Tickets for the show are from https://www.floralpavilion.com/whats-on/