A RETURNING X Factor hopeful says success in this year’s competition could change her life as a single mum forever.

Annastasia Baker lives in a Thamesmead flat but says the competition could help her achieve the dream of buying a home for herself and two-year-old daughter Nevaeh.

She first appeared on the show two years ago, reaching Cheryl Cole’s house before crashing out in tears.

Miss Baker explained: “I was upset because I messed up my song. But there was also the pressure of having a daughter who was very young and I was about to go through a show that could change our lives.”

Her audition this year was initially cut short after judge Simon Cowell objected to her rendition of Proud Mary.

But after launching into a performance of Make You Feel My Love by Adele, the judges were won over and put her through to the next stage, though Cowell lamented they would have to “start again” with her.

The 21-year-old said: “It’s cool. Simon just says what comes into his mind.

“At the end of the day I know it’s taken so long to get here again, I don’t want to mess it up.”

And she said this year she feels much stronger.

Miss Baker said: “I think I’m ready to go all the way - I just really want to do this.”

She added: “I don’t want to live on benefits and worry if the bills can get paid.

“I just want to make a better life for Nevaeh.”