'X Factor' Cher Lloyd given extra care

The production team will give Cher Lloyd "extra special attention" if she reaches the X Factor live shows, say reports.

According to the Daily Mail, show staff have expressed concerns about whether she is prepared for the strains of appearing in the latter stages of the competition after watching her at Boot Camp.

"Everyone was worried about Cher, she was extremely nervous and shaking at some points," said a source.

"She is quite bolshy on stage, but she sat by herself at lunch. She didn't eat much and looked frail and vulnerable as she was accompanied by a member of production. If she gets through to the live shows next month - which she is a shoo-in for - she will have to be given a bit of extra special attention. She is very young."

The show insider added: "We take great care with our contestants and ensure that they can cope with the strain that comes with taking part on the X Factor."

Lloyd, who has auditioned for the show for the past two years but had never made it to performing for the judges, has expressed a desire to have Cheryl Cole as her mentor.

"She idolises Cheryl and the way she rose to fame," said her dad John.

The X Factor continues on Saturday at 7.45pm on ITV1.