X Factor's Lucy Spraggan leaves show due to illness

Lucy Spraggan works as a portrait seller in Sheffield

Lucy Spraggan has pulled out of this year's X Factor.

The 20-year-old has failed to recover from an illness which stopped her from singing on the ITV show last Saturday (27 October).

"I am gutted not to be able to continue on this journey but I'm not well enough to perform," she said.

"To accept another free pass having missed last weekend would not be fair on the others in the competition."

'My ambition'

Lucy Spraggan, who was mentored by Tulisa, thanked the other contestants and her supporters.

"There is no way that this setback will prevent me from fulfilling my ambition," she said.

"You'll be hearing from me again very soon."

X Factor bosses called her a "fantastic" contestant and added they will continue to support her.

Jade Ellis, Tulisa, Ella Henderson and Lucy Spraggan attend the Skyfall premiere

Originally from Buxton, Derbyshire, Lucy Spraggan performed a song at her audition with lyrics about what happens to her on a night out.

Her mentor, Tulisa, said: "I'm so sorry to lose Lucy from the competition, I have had a brilliant time working with her.

"I hope I can continue to mentor her in the future.

"I now count her as a friend as she is an amazing girl."

Producers say Lucy Spraggan will not be replaced in the competition and one act will leave the show this weekend (3 and 4 November).