X Factor Gamu and family 'hopeful' they can stay in UK

X Factor contestant Gamu Nhengu, 18, and her family today said they were "hopeful" they would be allowed to remain in Britain today after the Home Office decided to reconsider her case.

The singer, who was eliminated from the ITV talent show, was initially told she must return to her native Zimbabwe after her mother's visa application was turned down. An appeal was due to be heard in Glasgow today.

However, at the start of the hearing, a Home Office representative said the case would be reconsidered and a "fresh decision will be made in due course".

Speaking after the hearing, the family's lawyer, Frances Farrell, told reporters: "The family are pleased that the Home Office have withdrawn their decisions and decided to reconsider my clients' cases.

"The family are hopeful that they will now be granted leave to remain in the UK.

"They want to thank everyone for all the wonderful support they have had."

Mr Brown, the MSP for Ochil, said he was "delighted" the Home Office has agreed to look again at the family's visa application.

The SNP MSP said he wrote to the Home Secretary today to voice his support for the family's case.

He said: "Tillicoutry is the family's home. They are a part of the local community, who are behind them 100%, and they should be allowed to stay.

"Gamu has many friends here, has grown up here and has made a real contribution to this area.

"People across Scotland want Gamu and her family to stay in Scotland.

"I share the family's hopes that this will result in a positive outcome."