X FACTOR star Sam Callahan has pulled out of a Christmas lights switch-on event in Greenock — but has been replaced by this year’s finalist Stephanie Nala.

Essex singer Sam, who made it to week six of the show, has had to cancel his scheduled appearance at the Oak Mall shopping centre event on Saturday 8 November.

The heartthrob has been forced to call off after being told to rest his voice.

But fans of the hit TV talent show will still be able to enjoy a star turn after organisers stepped in to quickly sign up Stephanie, one of the final 16 from this year’s series.

The 20-year-old was only voted off the talent competition on Sunday, along with Chloe Jasmine, both of whom were in Cheryl Fernandez-Versini’s girls category.

Despite the disappointment of losing Sam, mall bosses are thrilled to have secured such a high profile replacement.

Claire Jefcoate, Oak Mall manager, said: “Sam Callaghan, the 2013 X Factor finalist, has been advised to rest his voice.

“The Oak Mall is excited to announce that he will be replaced by 2014 finalist Stephanie Nala, who left the live shows on Sunday.

“We are delighted that she has accepted our invitation to attend our lights switch-on.” As well as her appearance as a solo artist on X Factor, Stephanie is also well-known from her appearance on Britain’s Got Talent last year.

She reached the finals as part of four-piece band Luminites. The group finished in fifth place, before splitting in April.

Now the singer’s fan will be able to see her perform live in the mall next month.

Ms Jefcoate said: “Stephanie was formally with the pop group Luminites before embarking on her solo career.

“She will perform and turn on the Oak Mall Christmas lights for 2014 on Saturday 8 November between 2.30 and 5.30pm.

“Stephanie will be supported by girl band Echo. We look forward to welcoming her to Greenock.” She is the latest in a long line of X Factor stars to take to the stage in Inverclyde in recent years.

They include 2013 runner-up Nicholas McDonald, Jade Richards, Lloyd Daniels, Lucie Jones and Melanie Masson.