Pop stars are often known for scandals and tantrums but a former X Factor finalist has found her niche fighting for her community.

Melanie Masson, who lives in Bowes Park, has recently been nominated for Capital FM’s Scottish Variety Award for Best New Scottish Band or Solo Artist.

The Glaswegian mother-of-three spoke to the Enfield Independent about the reputation she gained when she took a stand against plans to build a huge waste disposal plant in Pinkham Way, Bounds Green.

Mrs Masson said: "I was really behind the Pinkham Way campaign and although I don’t consider myself this, the newspapers have all branded me a community activist.

"I think if I’m passionate about something I feel I have to fight for it – when it’s something that affects where you live then it makes you fight even harder."

The singer-songwriter has lived in Bowes Park for the past six years and said even though she has lived all over the capital, she feels most at home in the area.

She said: "I like to see people come together to bring back community spirit.

"London can be a very transient place but I think where we are people are very friendly and welcoming – it has a real closeness – I’ve lived all over London and this where my heart is.

"I think you rely on your friends and neighbours more here so they become a bit like your family."

Mrs Masson is currently working on her album, which she plans to the release later this year, and says it would be worth the wait.

She said: "I think music is in my soul and it’s in my blood – I feel I was born with music in me.

"My children have that too and I don’t think I will ever stop playing and performing."

The winner of the Scottish Variety award is decided based on a poll of the public. Mrs Masson has appealed to the public to vote for her to win because she is the only mother among the nominees.

She added: "I want people to support their local girl and vote for me because I’m the only one who isn’t 19 or not some big powerhouse act."

Click here to vote for Melanie Masson.