Diana Vickers invited to homecoming gig despite X Factor exit

8:00pm Monday 8th December 2008

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COUNCIL chiefs are hoping to bring X Factor finalist Diana Vickers back to Blackburn despite her exit from the show.

Plans for the 17-year-old to perform a homecoming concert in the town centre today as part of the programme were cancelled after she was voted off.

But now X Factor bosses have told the Lancashire Telegraph that Diana’s fans have not seen the last of the talented Westholme School pupil.

And local councillors say they have not given up on the teenager coming back to Blackburn for a concert or public appearence so she can claim the recognition she deserves.

Councillor Michael Law-Riding, executive member for leisure and culture for the council, said it was a great shame that the concert did not go ahead.

He said: “Obviously we are very disappointed that Diana did not get through to the X Factor final and the planned event did not go ahead in the town centre.

“However, we are exploring what options are open to us so that we can make sure Diana gets the recognition she deserves from her friends and loyal fans in her home town.”

The homecoming concert was set to be a massive boost for the town, especially in the run up to Christmas.

Councillor Colin Rigby, leader of Blackburn with Darwen council, fans would have really enjoyed the concert.

He said:“It would have been fantastic for Blackburn to have Diana here.

“But we should really be thinking of Diana and how she is feeling. She’s the local girl from Blackburn who is now suddenly out of the competition.”

A spokeswoman for the X Factor said Diana, who grew up in Pleasington, Blackburn, and now lives with her mum Ann in Accrington, was currently attending management meetings to discuss her future plans.

She said: “We are sure that Diana will be in the process of planning her future concerts for her loyal fans.

"Additionally we can confirm Diana will be on the X-Factor tour.”

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