X Factor's Lucy Spraggan has signed a contract with Columbia and is set to release her debut album later this year

She was one of last year's favourites to win The X Factor, until she had to bow out of the competition due to illness.
But when Lucy told her fans that they hadn't seen the last of her she wasn't wrong, as she's just signed a major record contract with Columbia.
The singer/songwriter is set to release her debut album later on this year as well as a headline UK tour next month.

Record deal: X Factor's Lucy Spraggan has signed a contract with Columbia and is set to release her debut album later this year

Lucy was picked for the singing competition last year after getting a standing ovation while performing her self-penned track Last Night.

 

She was then put through to live shows by mentor Tulisa but ultimately finished in ninth place after dropping out due to ill health.
The 21-year-old from Sheffield has clearly been busy since her X Factor exit, putting in the studio hours so that her album will be ready this year.

Won over audiences: The singer got a standing ovation at her first audition and was put through to live shows by mentor Tulisa

Left the show: Lucy was forced to bow out of The X Factor due to illness, but returned for the live final in December

'I'm really excited to be working with Columbia, it is such a respected label with an incredible heritage,' said Lucy.
'To be signed to the company who have worked with great icons like Johnny Cash, Bob Dylan and Bruce Springsteen and the newer generation of artists like Calvin Harris and Rita Ora is amazing - I can't wait,' she added.
Proving her enduring popularity, Lucy's tour has already sold out with six extra dates now added due to popular demand.
'Lucy is a refreshingly honest and naturally gifted storyteller who walks to the beat of her own drum,' said Co-President of Columbia Alison Donald.

Put her through: Tulisa chose Lucy as one of her three acts to put through to the live shows, and admitted to being 'gutted' when she left

'Her song-writing very much fits in with the tradition and artistry of the Columbia ethos and we are absolutely delighted to have her on board,' she continued.
Despite leaving half way through the X Factor live shows, Lucy returned for live final in December.
She was over-the-moon to be reunited with best pal Rylan Clarke after they developed a close friendship during the show.
Clearly pleased with her new record deal, Lucy tweeted on Wednesday, saying: 'I am incredibly proud to tell you... I am officially signed to Columbia Records! Prepare for some music!'

Winner: While Lucy eventually came ninth in the competition, James Arthur was crowned the 2012 X Factor winner