DIANA Vickers may not be able to perform on the X Factor tomorrow after being struck down with a throat infection.

The 17-year-old from Accrington has been confined to her bed and has not taken part in a full week of rehearsals for fear of losing her voice.

It would be the first time a contestant has missed a show in the ITV1 talent contest’s history.

If the Westholme pupil cannot perform, she will be given special leave for the week, not kicked off the show.

Diana’s mum Ann said: “We’re crossing our fingers at the moment.

“Her throat has been very crackly all week. It’s such a shame but these things happen, especially at this time of year.”

Diana’s dad Eddie Vickers said: “We hope she’ll be able to perform.

“A doctor has been to prescribe her some antibiotics.”

A spokesperson for Talk Back Thames, which produces the X Factor, said: “She has been in bed all day and has not taken part in any rehersals.

“She will see a specialist later today.

“We will have to see how she is when she wakes up in the morning.

“But if she cannot perform, she will not be kicked off the show.

"She would be given leave this week because of the exceptional circumstances.”