X FACTOR star Sam Callahan has saved the day, stepping in after the headline act at an Altrincham teen’s charity gig had to pull out at the last minute.

Katie Thomson, 18, is hosting her annual charity gig Manchester’s Sound Control to raise money for Teenage Cancer Trust on Sunday August 7.

The Timperley Health Centre apprentice and her mum Diane have raised more £2,000 for the charity, after hosting their first gig last year. The year before, Katie enlisted the help of boyband Kingsland Road to shave off her hair, which banked more than £1,500 for the trust.

Katie was determined to make this year’s gig even better, working on the line-up since January. But her dream came crashing down when she received an email just one week before the gig explaining that the main act Tom Mann, from Stereo Kicks fame, couldn’t perform.

She feared the gig had to be cancelled.

After a busy weekend begging for help, however, her knight in shining armour finally appeared in the shape of former X factor finalist Sam Callahan.

“I was devastated to receive an email on Saturday morning to say my main act could no longer perform,” said Katie, who also works at Vue in Altrincham.

“We have had a frantic few days trying to find a replacement which has not been easy at such short notice. I couldn't believe my luck when Sam Callaghan agreed to step in and am absolutely delighted he is joining the line-up.”

A relieved Katie has also secured former X factor favourites Kiera Weathers and New Kings Order, who are performing alongside David Bulley, Ashley Sherlock, Kate Lynn and Dan Loops.

Speaking to the Messenger, Sam said: "It's always a privilege to perform for The Teenage Cancer Trust charity, it's a been an organisation that I've done lots for in the past after my experiences with my close friend Jayde Allen, who is now fighting her battle with cancer for the third time at just 21 years old. 

"Personally I think it's a real shame when artists pull out of performing at events last minute when their fans have paid to see them. 

"However, I'm chuffed to be replacing Tom as I know we're going to put on an amazing event and raise loads of money for the charity."

Teenage Cancer Trust is the only UK charity dedicated to improving the quality of life and chances of survival for the seven young people aged 13 to 24 diagnosed with cancer every day.

The charity funds and builds specialist units in NHS hospitals and provides dedicated staff, bringing young people together so they can be treated by teenage cancer experts in the best place for them.

Sabina Ruta, Teenage Cancer Trust regional fundraiser, said: “It’s so wonderful to receive the continued support from both Katie and her Mum. As a charity we rely on voluntary donations and the support of the local community through events like these to ensure young people with cancer and their families have access to the best possible care and support. A huge thank you to Katie and Diane for their support and all the artists and bands for being part of the evening.”

Katie said that Tom has given a full refund and a donation to the Teenage Cancer Trust for having to cancel. 

Tickets for Sunday’s gig, which begins at 6pm, can be purchased from ticketsource.co.uk/katiethomson. They are priced at £15 for Meet and Greet or £10 for general admission.