Leon cancels New Year performance

X Factor winner Leon Jackson has been forced to cancel his performance at Edinburgh's Hogmanay celebrations after being struck down with tonsillitis.

The 19-year-old was scheduled to kick off the city's annual Street Party, but has been ordered to rest his voice for the next two weeks.

He said: "I'm just disappointed to be letting people down, but it wouldn't feel nice to get on stage and not be able to deliver."

George Grubb, Edinburgh City Council's Lord Provost, said he was disappointed that Jackson was unable to play, adding: "His presence would have been a great way to open the celebrations, but we are still very excited about the excellent entertainment that we have lined up on all the stages tonight."

At least 50,000 revellers are expected at the event, with forecasts predicting "damp" weather.

Jackson's debut single 'When You Believe' is currently at number one in the UK charts for the second week.

> Click here for our interview with Leon earlier this month