X Factor struck an emotional chord last night, with one contestant's story so heartbreaking it moved the female judges to tears.

Daniel Evans gave a touching performance of Barry Manilow's Sometimes When We Touch, and was sent through to the next round.

But it was his revelation that his wife Jacqueline, 39, died last year, six days after giving birth to their daughter Ana-Marie, that prompted tears from Cheryl Cole and Dannii Minogue.

Moved: Cheryl Cole wiped away tears after hearing Daniel Evans' story

Emotional: Daniel's heartbreak struck a chord with Dannii Minogue

Asked why he was auditioning Daniel, 39, said: “It was the wish of my wife.

“Last year after giving birth to my beautiful baby girl she passed away and I realised life is too short so I decided to go for it. At least I can say I tried.”

Cheryl was so moved by the story that she could barely speak to give Daniel her vote of approval.

She told him afterwards: “I can see why your wife wanted you to audition. I think she’d be very proud.”

Heartfelt: Daniel Evans lost his wife Jacqueline last year after she gave birth to their daughter

Tearful: Cheryl broke down and struggled to speak to give her vote

Jacqueline suffered multiple organ failure after complications during labour.

She was forced to have an emergency hysterectomy, but she slipped into a coma and never woke up from the operation. Six days after giving birth she was dead.

Daniel's appearance on the show came on what would have been the couple's fifth wedding anniversary.

Essex-born Daniel, who has two teenage children from a previous relationship, said: “Jacqueline had always been my biggest fan.

“We always watched X Factor at our home in Spain and every year she said, ‘You should enter that’, but it was never the right time.

“But if the last year has taught me anything it’s to live life to the full. When I sang I knew she was in there with me. She’s always there beside me.”

Proud dad: Daniel with daughter Ana-Marie, whose mum died last year