THE youngest ever British X Factor finalist has returned to her old school this morning. The visit was part of her whistle-stop tour of the North-East to drum up support before the winner is crowned at the weekend.

Amelia Lily, 17, from Middlesbrough visited Teesside High in Eaglescliffe at 8.30am this morning.

She arrived in a black mercedes people-carrier and was escorted by police down The Avenue, which leads to the school. A film crew from The X Factor followed in her wake.

The visit was a well-guarded secret - only the school children and staff knew about her arrival.

Pupils at the school have been supportive of their former classmate since her appearance on the X Factor - they launched an internet campaign on facebook and twitter.

She will perform in front of 1000 fans tonight at The Empire, in Middlesbrough, at 7.30pm