Lucy Spraggan has thanked fans for their 'incredible' support after quitting The X Factor this weekend.
The 21-year-old singer left the competition after she was deemed too ill to perform by doctors and has chosen not to take a 'free pass' to the next round for a second week running.
And the aspiring pop star took to Twitter on Monday to thank fans for standing by her and her decision.
She wrote: 'A massive thank you for all the support throughout the show, you've been incredible. I can't wait to perform again. #thankyou.
News of her departure from the series shocked fans and a stunned studio audience gasped when the announcement was made by host Dermot O'Leary on Saturday night.
In an official statement ahead of the show, Lucy said: 'I am gutted not to be able to continue on this journey but I am not well enough to perform.
'To accept another free pass having missed last weekend would not be fair on the others in the competition. I wish them all well.
'I would like to express my thanks to everyone who has supported me. There is no way that this setback will prevent me from fulfilling my ambition. You'll be hearing from me again very soon.'
A spokesperson for The X Factor added: 'Lucy isn't well enough to perform this weekend so she has decided to withdraw from the competition.
'We are all sorry to see her go and wish her all the best for the future. She has been a fantastic contestant.'
Producers are said to have invited the Tea and Toast singer back for a special performance during the live final of the show and The X Factor judge Tulisa has vowed to help her again in the future.
Tulisa tweeted: 'I'm so sorry to lose @lspraggan from the competition... I have had a brilliant time working with her and I hope I can continue to mentor her in the future.
'I now count her as a friend. She is an amazing girl. I love ya Lucy, get well soon and my thoughts are with you. Xx'