Singer in tears during BGT audition

Young singing hopeful Malakai Paul bursts into tears as he is struck by stage fright while showing off his skills to Britain's Got Talent judges tonight.

The nine-year-old, from north London, crumples as he loses his nerve during his audition, prompting Alesha Dixon to rush on stage to comfort him.

But the panel allow the youngster to try again as he wins their hearts with his swooping voice while trying out for the ITV1 show.

The judges are also dazzled by another school-age soul sensation, Molly Rainford, 11, during the sixth audition programme of the series.

Molly, from Barking in Essex, wows the stars, with Alesha telling her: "You sing with such maturity and control - you've just blown me away."

And show boss Simon Cowell agrees, telling her: "You've got soul - I really do believe that."

Malakai captivated the judges with his first attempt, but fell into sobs.

His mother had already warned that his confidence may go in front of a large theatre audience, and the youngster himself said earlier: "Sometimes I get a bit nervous and get stage fright."

But after being given a hug on stage from his mother and a reassuring pep-talk from Alesha he tried once more as the audience chanted his name and went on to win a standing ovation.

Viewers will see tonight which of the acts makes it through to the live heats of the show.