DIANA Vickers is set to make her big West End debut tonight — with a little help from the Lancashire Telegraph.

The 18-year-old former Westholme student from Huncoat takes the lead role in Little Voice. Producers of show at the Vauderville Theatre in London have ordered 200 copies of the paper to use on stage as a prop.

Kevin Wilson, spokesperson for the production said: “It’s a scene where the mother of Diana’s character is checking something in the paper.

“At first they were going to get the Evening Standard, but I said, no, let’s get the real paper from the area it’s set in and where Diana is from.”

Little Voice is the tale of a painfully shy girl who lives alone in the north of England with her mother and has a talent for impersonating some of the greatest divas, including Judy Garland, Edith Piaf and Dame Shirley Bassey.

For her big debut, Diana, who made her name in last year’s X Factor, reaching the semi final, will be supported by family and friends.

Her mum Ann said it would be the first trip of many, adding: “I think it’s absolutely fantastic. I’m so proud of her. It’s a dream come true.

“She’s thoroughly enjoyed the rehearsals and the other actors have been lovely with her.

"She’s nervous, but that’s to be expected. There’s 12 of us going down to support her on her big night, and I’m hoping to go down again a few times to watch it.”

Lesley Sharp, known for her parts in Cranford, Clocking Off, and Playing the Field, and Marc Warren, star of Hustle and Dr Who, take on the two other lead roles.

As well as her acting, Diana has recently signed a record deal with RCA records and her debut album, which she has co-written, is due for release early next year.

The Rise and Fall of Little Voice at Vaudeville Theatre, London, runs until January 30, 2010. For tickets call 0844 579 1975.