The 12 finalists of this year's series of The X Factor have topped the UK singles chart, knocking judge Cheryl Cole’s band Girls Aloud from the top spot. Their cover of Mariah Carey's 1993 hit, 'Hero', was recorded for Help for Heroes, which provides support for wounded servicemen and women, and the Royal British Legion's Poppy Appeal.

The track that is tipped to be the decade's fastest-selling charity single has sold 313,244 copies in its first week of release - more than the entire top 10 combined. HMV spokesman Gennaro Castaldo commented "The public's response to this single is amazing. It has the potential to be the biggest release of the decade with an extended run at the top of charts."



Last week Chancellor Alistair Darling announced that VAT on sales of the single would be donated to the charity. The fundraising also received a boost when high street retailer Woolworths announced it would give away its profits from sales of the single. The retail chain said that at least an extra £25,000 will go to the charity as a result - estimated to be around £25,000.



Prior to the single’s release, so-founder of Help For Heroes Bryn Parry said “Everyone at Help For Heroes is thrilled to hear that The X Factor is supporting our boys and girls. We hope the public will do their bit to make this a hit single and demonstrate that we really care”