FORMER X-FACTOR contestants the LMA Choir gave a special performance during the Christmas lights switch-on at Clatterbridge Cancer Centre.

The singers, who were mentored by Robbie Williams during the TV talent show and later eliminated from the contest, performed a number of songs for staff and patients after the switch-on.

The choir, who are all current or former students of Liverpool Media Academy and features three members from Wirral, proved a big hit with more than 100 patients and staff who gathered outside to watch.

Their performance, which culminated with the Christmas song Santa Claus is coming to town, was the fitting finale of a day of festive fun and fundraising for the charity.

Entertainment was provided throughout the day from Wirral Boys Grammar School Brass Band, Wallasey Ukulele Strummers, Upton Hall School Chamber Choir and Sing Me Merseyside.

The Christmas tree was blessed by hospital chaplain Paul Dempster before the lights were lit and the LMA Choir performed.

There were raffles, tombola and mince pies and non-alcoholic mulled wine.

Staff and patients were dressed in Christmas jumpers and the whole centre entered into the festive spirit.

Katrina Bury, head of The Clatterbridge Cancer Charity, said: "I would like to thank everyone who worked so hard to make the whole day such a wonderful experience for our patients and staff, from our volunteers, to the wonderful entertainers from the local community and all the businesses who donated festive refreshments and decorations.

"To have the LMA Choir here was a real treat and they were fabulous in finishing the day off in style, so a big thank you to them for finding the time for us in their busy schedule and to ComCab Liverpool for providing their transport.

"Christmas is a very special time of the year and we wanted to make it a magical day for everyone.

"It is thanks to the kindness and generosity of all those involved that we were able to do that."

She also thanked local supermarkets including branches of Sainsbury’s, Asda and Tesco, Smylies in Bromborough as well as CSM and Hursts bakeries for providing mince pies, soft drinks and advent calendars.

The Clatterbridge Cancer Charity is working to raise £15 million towards the construction of a brand new specialist hospital in Liverpool city centre.