Cher: "I wouldn't be here without you"

The X Factor finalist spoke on the red carpet at her homecoming concert at the Three Counties Showground.

She said: “I just want to say a big thank you. I’m so glad for the support. I wouldn’t be here without it. I love my home town and I’ve seen some very familiar faces today.”

As she looked out at the crowd of 1,300 who had queued for tickets to the gig she said: “Just look at the kids’ faces – that’s what it’s all about.”

Her mentor Cheryl Cole introduced the 17-year-old on stage. The Geordie star told the audience Cher was going to “get her swag on” before dancing on stage with the teenager.

The Girls Aloud star said: “I’ve loved being in Malvern - it’s so pretty here with all the ice and frost.”

Cheryl also thanked local people for their support.

During the 15-minute concert Cher performed some of the songs she has sung on the X Factor including Turn My Swag On, Shout/No Diggity, Just Be Good To Me and Girlfriend.

Earlier Cher, wearing glittery leggings, a black jacket and red stiletto boots had looked shocked as she arrived at the showground to be greeted by hundreds of screaming fans. The youngster put her hand to her mouth and said, “Oh my God!” as fireworks exploded over the Malvern Hills backdrop.

She said: “Is this all for me? I can’t believe it. I honestly didn’t expect it at all.”

The youngster signed autographs before and after the concert for fans who chanted: “We want Cher!”