X Factor hopeful Lucy Spraggan has spoken of her joy at acting as a role model to the gay and lesbian community.

The singer has impressed on the TV series so far this year with self-penned tracks like 'Last Night (Beer Fear)' and she told The Sun that her open sexuality has positively influenced people around the country.

Spraggan said that people have been coming up to her to express their gratitude at helping them come out. She said:

"I've done gigs and some young girls there said they were watching TV with their parents, they heard my music, their parents loved it, found out I was gay, still loved it and they've said, 'Oh, I'm gay as well', and their parents have been fine. For me, to have helped someone come out is the biggest compliment ever."

Lucy Spraggan is currently 8/1 favourite to win this year's X Factor competition, with Ella Henderson the top tip.