DIANA Vickers’ family have thanked Lancashire people for voting her through — but said criticism from X Factor judges had left them ‘very stressed’.

The Westholme pupil won through to the semi finals of the ITV talent show on Saturday.

But the 17-year-old was criticised by the judges. Louis Walsh said she was the weakest of the remaining female contestants and questioned why Diana had not danced during her time on the show.

Danni Minogue told her to put more passion into her performances, while Simon Cowell criticised Diana’s first performance.

Earlier on in the show the judges had nothing but praise for Diana.

And her family said they were feeling the tension as the competition built to its climax.

Her mum Anne Vickers, who Diana lives with in Accrington, said: “We’re feeling very stressed out.

“But the fans who put her through have been absolutely amazing . We have been overwhelmed by the support and love they have shown her.

“She is a Lancashire girl and the people of Lancashire are coming through for her.

“For someone so young, she has done so well.”

Her dad Eddie Vickers, of Blackburn, said: “It is getting tight now. The last four are all exceptional this year.

“We want to thank everyone for their support and we hope it continues.”

Saturday was Britney Spears night. Diana performed the American singer’s I’m, Not A Girl, Not Yet A Woman. Later, she did REM’s Everybody Hurts.

For the first time in the competition this year, the results were entirely down to the public vote.

Spaniard Ruth Lorenzo was voted off, despite being praised by the judges for both her songs.

Diana was straight back into rehersals this morning as she prepares for next Saturday’s show.