Hundreds of fans are expected to pack into WH Smith in the Grosvenor Centre this afternoon when Jordan, real name Katie Price, visits the shop to sign copies of her new book.

However, plans were thrown into disarray when Jordan's eight-year-old son, Harvey, was rushed to hospital with suspected swine flu, on Wednesday.

The model and former wife of Peter Andre was said to be "frantic" about the well-being of her disabled son.

However, speaking to the Chronicle and Echo yesterday, WH Smith store manager, David Hope, said: "As far as we know, it is still on.

"We have been checking the story out quite seriously ourselves today and our head office has informed us that everything is still on at the moment.

"So we have no reason to think everything will not go ahead."

Staff at the Grosvenor Centre have been told to prepare for up to 1,000 fans of the tabloid star to turn up to see Jordan, pictured, sign copies of her new book, Standing Out.

Extra security staff have been drafted in specially for her appearance, while managers have promised to keep the shopping centre open beyond its 7pm closing time to make sure fans don't go home empty handed.

Asked if the stories of Harvey's illness, widely reported in yesterday's national newspapers, had caused him a fright, Mr Hope said: "Just a bit.

"You can imagine how many phone calls we have had today and it is always possible we will get a phone call saying she can't come, but as of now it is definitely happening."

Grosvenor Centre manager, Sheridan New, added: "I have seen the stories in the papers but we haven't heard any more.

"If we do hear anything to the contrary we will do whatever we have to do at that time, but at this moment we are still expecting her here.

"Of course we hope her son recovers and at the moment we are still working to 'Plan A'."

Jordan is due to appear in the store from 5pm today. For the latest developments log onto www.northamptonchron.co.uk.