THE mother of X Factor star Rylan Clark spoke of her joy after he was crowned the winner of this year’s Celebrity Big Brother.

Rylan, 24, from Stanford-le-Hope, beat competition from Steps singer Claire Richards, former footballer Neil “Razor” Ruddock, Neighbours’ actor Ryan Moloney and American reality television stars Spencer and Heidi Pratt, to be named champion in the 11th series of the show.

Despite being the bookies favourite to win the Channel 5 programme, mum Linda Clark admitted she was shocked when host Brian Dowling announced the former X Factor contestant had won by public vote.

She said: “We are all just over the moon. I never expected him to win. I think I’m still in shock.

“This time last year he hadn’t even had his audition for X Factor and now look at him. We are all so proud.

“I think people voted for him because what you saw is just Rylan being himself.

“Everyone who knows him loves him, that’s just how he is.”

Mrs Clark, who suffers from Crohn’s disease, was unable to make the live final, but spoke to an emotional Rylan on national TV soon after he had left the Big Brother house.

She revealed her delight American couple “Speidi” did not win after vicious feuds with fellow housemates.

Mrs Clark said: “I think if it wasn’t for Spencer and Heidi, the house would have been really friendly, so you probably needed them to liven it up.

“I’m just glad they didn’t win. I said to Rylan I hope you never have to see those two again.

“He stood up for himself in the house, which is lovely, and what I think anyone in his situation would have done.

“Rylan already has a lot of friends, but I think he’s made even more inside the Big Brother House.

“You could see he got on really well with most people, especially Razor, Claire and Gillian Taylforth. ”

Rylan arrived back at the family home in Stanford-le-Hope in the early hours of Saturday, but after a quick cup of tea and chat with Linda, his driver whisked him up to Manchester for the start of the X Factor tour.

His chuffed mum added: “I never really get to see him anymore. He pops in whenever he can, but he’s been so busy.

“Everyone asks if I miss him, but it’s fine because I get to see him on television all the time.

“As long as I know he’s safe and looking after himself, then I’m happy.”