EAST Lancashire singing sensation Diana Vickers overcame a bad throat to win through to the next round of the X Factor.

The 17-year-old, who had been told not to perform last week after being diagnosed with laryngitis, sang Coldplay rock ballad Yellow on Saturday’s ITV show.

Despite still not feeling on top form and giving a below-par performance, the Westholme pupil was told by judge Louis Walsh that she deserved a place in the show’s final.

She then burst into tears and hugged mentor Cheryl Cole when she was announced first through to the next stage in the later results show.

Speaking afterwards, mum Ann, who watched alongside friends and family in the studio audience, said: “She did really well considering her voice still isn’t right. She hadn’t practised all week.

“I think they are all getting quite emotional now, it’s a big thing for all of them. But we are all just so proud of her getting through again.”

Diana, who lives with her mum in Accrington, has been at the centre of a media storm since being ordered not to sing last week by doctors who feared she could permanently damage her voice. The show’s makers were criticised for allowing her to get a free pass into the next round of the show, especially after fellow favourite Laura White was controversially booted out of the competition.

After performing on Saturday, Diana, who has been backed by rock veterans Status Quo, held her head in her hands.

Judge Simon Cowell said that “her vocal was really off in parts” and he did not think she was well enough yet.

But he said: “I have to say I really missed you. I think you are the most relevant artist in the whole competition.”

Cheryl Cole said: “Your are not 100 per cent well but you were determined to get up there. I respect your determination.”

She added: “I hope people vote to keep you in the competition because you’re a little star.”

Louis Walsh praised her performance saying that she was “back with a bang”.

He added: “I’m glad you are back in the competition. Don’t be nervous because you have to be in the final.”