X-Factor Nicky’sheart-felt support

He popped in to Yorkhill Hospital a few days before performing at Glasgow’s SECC on Friday as part of the X Factor Live tour.

The 17-year-old star made a special point of visiting Reece Newlands, 13, of Greenfaulds, who has been receiving treatment for an aggressive form of inflammatory bowel condition, Crohn’s disease..

Reece, who is coping with extensive treatment and surgery, wants to help a local charity find a cure for the disease.

For his 14th birthday next month, his aunt, Alison Mulholland, is cutting off all her waist-length hair and shaving her head in aid of Glasgow-based charity Cure Crohn’s and Colitis.

Reece’s school, Greenfaulds High, have been showing their support with a non-uniform day to help their young pupil and his aunt reach their target of £2000.

Reece’s mum Margaret said: “Reece was delighted to get a visit from Nicholas. He chatted away with him and gave him his autograph. And we got loads of photographs with him and Reece’s wee sister Chloe.

“We just want to raise as much money as we can for the charity to find a cure for this horrible disease.

“Reece was diagnosed three years ago and has been in and out of hospital ever since for surgery and treatment.

“He is such a laid-back boy, though, and takes it all in his stride. We are very proud of him.”

To donate to the fund-raising event, Alison’s Taking It All Off, visit www.justgiving.com/curecrohncolitis