The region's X Factor pop duo have returned to the North East for Christmas.

And excitement is in the air with talks of a possible lucrative record contract and an engagement.

Brothers Carl and Andy Pemberton, of Coulby Newham, Middlesbrough, who form Journey South, were greeted by eager fans outside Stockton's TFM studios early this morning.

Facing the local media after their dramatic exit from the reality-based show on Saturday, the brothers expressed their gratitude to the thousands of North-East fans who voted for them each and every week.

Although Journey South failed to take the X Factor Crown, the Middlesbrough brothers secured a well-earned third place out of 75,000 hopefuls entering the national talent competition.

On Monday, the duo's mentor, Simon Cowell, hinted to television viewers of a record deal.

Andy, 29, said: "We can't really say the particulars of it but things are looking really good. We have been in talks with Simon and all we can say is watch this space.

"It is an amazing feeling. Simon is the main man - if we want to be signed by anyone we want to be signed by him. We are in such a privileged position to be friends with him."

And despite denials to the press from their manager, Carl, 25, confirmed his marriage proposal to girlfriend Vic Duffy from Nunthorpe.

He said: "It is true. We went back to the hotel and it just seemed like a good opportunity - it was really nice and romantic."

The brothers decided to skip the showbiz parties this week to return home for the festive season.

Carl said: "We are feeling like it is good to be back with the family. We didn't win but we are not going to give up. We are feeling fairly positive - it is the start of something new."

Andy added: "It was unbelievably close between all three. We are just pleased that the final went really well.

"February 17 at Newcastle Arena is the first date of the tour - we are starting the tour in the best place - the North East. Get yourselves there it is going to be a fantastic show."