James Arthur Named The X Factor Winner

James Arthurhas been named as the winner of this year's Jahmene Douglas in the show's live final at the MEN Arena - withChristopher Maloney having been eliminated from the contest last night.

SEE PICS FROM THE FINAL WEEKEND HERE

On hearing the news from host Dermot O'Leary he was lost for words, saying: "I don’t know what to think, just thank you so much. Have I really won? Wow, I don’t know what to say.”

But runner-up Jahmene was gracious in defeat and stepped up to the mic to pay tribute to the winner, saying it had been "a blessing to share the stage with such a talent".

James thanked his mentor on the show, Nicole Scherzinger, telling her: "You've been the best mentor, and not only that you've been an amazing friend."

The final night also featured appearances from this year's other contestants, including Union J, Rylan Clark and Lucy Spraggan - along with a turn from pop megastar Rihanna.

James will release a cover of Shontelle's Impossible as his debut single - the proceeds of which will go to charity Together For Short Lives.

SEE PICS FROM THE FINAL WEEKEND HERE