Dream dates as Matt, 19, lands support slot on One Direction tour

A teenage musician says he can hardly believe his luck after being chosen to support boy-band One Direction on their sell-out tour.

Matt Lonsdale, from Thurnby, will support last year's X Factor finalists on their 23-night tour later this month.

The 19-year-old had only been performing as a soloist for a matter of weeks when he was snapped up by the band's agency, who were impressed by his self-penned pop-rock songs.

"When I found out I was going to be on tour with One Direction I was just sitting there waiting to wake up," said the former Leicester College music student. "I absolutely love One Direction and will be watching them every night. I still can't believe that I'm going to be warming up for them.

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"This is literally a dream come true for me, and something I have hoped for since I was really little."

After several years performing with numerous bands, Matt went solo in September.

He recorded a demo and a video before sending it off to Modest Management, who represent One Direction.

Within weeks he was signed up and talk of him supporting the teen-favourites on their six-week tour began.

Since his place on the tour was confirmed, Matt has been preparing to play to thousands of screaming fans in sell-out arenas around the country.

"I didn't tell people until I knew for certain because I knew I would look really silly if it didn't happen," admitted Matt.

"But when I did come to tell people some of my family didn't even know who One Direction were so they will keep me grounded, I think.

"My mum is really proud, though. When she watched my You Tube video saying I was going on tour, she did get a bit emotional, bless her.

"When I started playing I always said to people that I would do something brilliant, but I think people just thought I was saying it to impress the girls.

"I can't put into words how excited I am to be doing this. It's a dream come true."

A former pupil of St Joseph's RC Primary, Netherhall, and St Paul's School, Evington, Matt will perform a 25-minute, five-song set almost every night between December 18 and 23, and then January 3 and 26.