X FACTOR quarter-finalist Katie Waissel has agreed to distribute toys to children at Northwick Park Hospital next week, as part of the Observer's Christmas Toy Appeal.

The 24-year-old former Pinner schoolgirl will take time out of her busy touring schedule to spend an hour meeting young patients at the children's ward who will be spending Christmas away from home.

Katie, who famously survived the X Factor's dreaded sing-off on no less than four occasions before being eliminated from the hit ITV1 show last week, will follow a long line of Harrow celebrities to take part in the festive appeal.

Past participants in the 'Father Christmas' role include TV presenter Fearne Cotton (2005), singer-songwriter Kate Nash (2007) and pop group Scouting For Girls (2008).

North West London Hospitals NHS Trust chief executive, Fiona Wise, said Katie's involvement was great news.

"We are delighted Katie Waissel is supporting the Christmas toy appeal," she told the Observer.

"Already the staff and patients in Jack's Place are getting excited at this news and eagerly looking forward to the chance to meet Katie soon.

"With Katie's support I am sure the appeal will prove a great success and make a real difference to the children who have to stay in hospital at Christmas time."

Friday (10) is the last day for residents to contribute to the appeal, by handing in their toys to any of Harrow's 11 libraries during normal opening hours.

Katie, from Harefield, attended Heathfield Independent Girls' School, in Beaulieu Drive, Pinner, from age four though to 16. Her family run the trendy DNK Fashion shop in the village's High Street.