Copeland’s talent show star lost out to Kevin Simm – a former member of pop group Liberty X – in Saturday’s live final watched by millions.
Back in Moor Row, Jolan Gidney-Craigen has thanked his fans and is looking forward to the next step.
He also spoke about how finishing as runner-up might work out for the best.
“Kevin winning and me coming second was the perfect outcome really, it gives me the freedom now to do my own thing,” said Jolan.
“I’ll be working towards a music career. I just want to write, record, release some music and perform it.”
And, throughout the BBC show, he has grown close with his fellow finalist.
He said: “He’s like a brother. We’re quite similar people and what ever happens we’ll support each other.
“We wouldn’t be there if we didn’t want to win, but I’m so happy he won. I respect him and he respects me.”
On previous TV talent shows, failing to win hasn’t prevented acts such as One Direction and Olly Murs from achieving success.
And Jolan couldn’t have made it this far without the support he has received.
“I never expected to have this much support. It’s not just been in Cumbria, it’s been all over the UK – all over the world. It’s the power of YouTube,” explained the singer.
“It’s daft, Twitter has gone mental. I’ve got almost 13,500 followers now. All I wanted was to enjoy it and other people to enjoy it.”
Busy BBC studios have now been replaced with quiet village life as the singer takes time to recover. He said: “I wake up and feel like I need to do something because it’s been so busy for weeks.
“I needed a few days rest, but now I’ve got an urge to get going.”
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here