X Factor winner to record album

X Factor winner Ben Haenow is to begin work on his album in a fortnight after finally signing a deal on his 30th birthday.

The former van driver from Croydon triumphed in the ITV show last month and his winner’s single Something I Need went on to become the Christmas number one.

Haenow yesterday signed a contract with Syco Music, with Simon Cowell saying he was thrilled to have him on board.

The singer, whose album will be released later this year, said: “To say I’m excited to become part of the Syco family is an understatement.”

Haenow heads out on the road next month on a 26-date X Factor tour, starting in Belfast.