A MAN with a learning disability has proved he has got the X-Factor after his bagpipe playing was praised by Sharon Osbourne.

Michael Lonsdale, 20, from Springfield Road, Great Harwood, had very low self-esteem and lacked confidence over meeting people and making new friends.

But he was inspired by Accrington Bagpipers to take up the pipes.

Michael taught himself to play several pieces by ear - because he can't read music due to his dyspraxia - and eventually became so skilled that he was told that if he had a set of bagpipes he would be able to join the Accrington Pipers.

The cost of the pipes was £500 which his family could not afford. He applied and was granted a development award from the Prince's Trust, which is supported by Sharon Osborne.

Michael now plays with Preston Pipe Band and has performed at Burns' Nights, New Year's Eve events, Easter and summer parades.

He has won a talent competition at Pontin's Holiday Camp and performed at Lancashire Prince's Trust 2005 Celebrate Success Awards.

Sharon Osbourne said she supported the work of the Prince's Trust so people like Michael could make a success of their lives.

She said: "Just like the X-Factor, there's often a small difference between success and failure. But what happens if no one has ever given you that chance or never believed in you?

"Every day young people are leaving care or dropping out of school and just giving up on themselves. They don't think any-one cares if they don't find work and get into trouble.

"But the Prince's Trust recognises that they have a lot to give. That's why I am such a big fan of their work.

"Michael's self-esteem, confidence and well-being have increased so much. He is now looking forward to a promising future and I wish him every success."Developmental dyspraxia is an impairment or immaturity of the organisation of movement. It is an immaturity in the way that the brain processes information, which results in messages not being properly or fully transmitted.

Michael said: "The Prince's Trust has opened up a new world for me. I have found my confidence and done things I never thought I'd be able to do, I now feel very positive about my future."

The Prince's Trust gives practical and financial support, developing skills, confidence and motivation to 14-30 year-olds.