Rachel Tucker (26) from Belfast and 17-year-old Bangor schoolgirl Niamh Perry remain among the judges' favourites and last night both secured a spot in the next stage of the competition to win a part in the West End musical Oliver.

The pair received rave reviews for their solo performances on Saturday evening.

After Niamh performed Kiki Dee's I've got the Music in Me, Denise Van Outen told her: "You wanted to show you're not a one trick pony, I tell you what - you're a winning race horse. You gave a leading lady performance."

John Barrowman agreed saying: "That was wicked, outstanding and wonderful. Absolutely spot on."

Barry Humphries was not as convinced, telling Niamh: "You have a waif-like quality, so I'm a little worried about you playing Nancy as she gets knocked around a bit".

However, Andrew Lloyd Webber disagreed telling her: "You're just extraordinary. You put the vamp back into vampire for me."

Rachel's performance of Christina Aguilera's performance also impressed the judges.

John told her: "Your honesty gave me chills. That was beautiful, beautiful, beautiful".

Barry agreed saying: "Small girl, big performance."

Denise enjoyed it too, adding: "You're consistent - last week you were fantastic, tonight you were mind-blowing. The best acting quality I've seen - watch and take note, ladies."

And Andrew was also impressed: "That song could have backfired but you turned it around and it was magnificent."

Last night before the public vote was announced the judges were asked which Nancys stood out for them. Andrew singled out Niamh saying she was " extraordinary" and Barry said both Niamh and Rachel.

When the votes were finally announced both women were clearly delighted when they were told they had got through to the next stage of the competition.

Eighteen-year-old Jessie Buckley, from Co Kerry, also survived last night's nailbiting public vote.

And Londonderry schoolboy Gareth Borrow is also still in the running for the part of Oliver despite not yet being selected by the judges to go through to the semi-finals.