Thursday, 25 November 2010

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X Factor star Cher Lloyd: Don't call me pikey!

Cher Lloyd hits back at 'racist' comments

Cher Lloyd plans to change the public's mind about Romany gypsies

Cher Lloyd hates the way gypsies are reviled in society. 

The X Factor diva, who had to sing for survival in last week's live results show, has Romany roots and thinks prejudice towards the travelling community is unfair.

'It's something I'm very proud of. I'm never going to forget my heritage, no matter what,' says Cher, 17.

'I hate that people can say you're a pikey and it's not even considered racist.'

And the stylish teenager is happy and willing to use her fame to change the public's perception of gypsy culture.

'Romanies haven't had much of a chance to speak up or be in the public eye,' she says, 'I want to make a start.'

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Esme Riley