Kelli Young: Broke down after being told she has not made the final band

The five came together after failing to make it into the final line-up, now know as Hear'Say.

Believing they could make it in the music world on their own they formed Liberty.

Kevin Simm, 20, Tony Lundon, 22, Michelle Heaton, 21, Jessica Taylor, 20, and Kelli Young, 19, were last seen on TV being told by 'Nasty' Nigel Lythgoe they would not be making it into the band.

They then had to endure watching Hear'Say take the pop world by storm, notching up a number one album and single.

Hear'Say are now busy promoting their second single.

Hear'Say have made chart history

After Branson met with Liberty, he kept a close eye on their progress and asked for a demo tape.

V2's stable includes such diverse artists as the Stereophonics, Tom Jones, Mercury Rev and Moby.

Branson said: "I think Liberty are a fantastic band.

"From the first meeting I was absolutely wowed by their determination, optimism and their refusal to give up, but it was when I heard their music that I knew they were going to be a huge success."

Another Popstars reject, Warren Jituboh, is reportedly in talks with DefJam Records to sign an album deal.