X Factor singer’s school show

An X Factor finalist entertained students with a concert before signing autographs.

Laura White (22) of Bolton, who was controversially voted off last year’s programme early, performed at Tuxford School in front of 200 pupils, chosen by tutors as a reward for their positive attitudes.

The head of drama, Michelle Buck, who invited Laura to the school, said: “The whole performance was fantastic.”

Laura sang three songs and met some of the school’s musicians.

Her controversial exit from ITV’s X Factor show last year prompted a 50,000-name petition in protest.

Laura’s name was also raised in a debate in the Houses of Parliament.

On Monday, she released her first single, called You Should Have Known.

Laura told students that not winning was perhaps best for an artist like herself.

Away from the media pressure surrounding the show, she has had the time and space to develop her song writing and vocal skills.

The school’s press secretary, Mr Terry White, said: “The pupils were all quite excited. She went down a storm.”