Matt Cardle has won this year’s X Factor, which concluded tonight (December 12).

The 27-year-old did battle in the final against teen group One Direction and Rebecca Ferguson.

Cardle, who was mentored by Dannii Minogue, was 8/11 favourite to take the crown with book makers William Hill.

The final three were selected on Saturday (December 11), when Cher Lloyd failed to secure enough votes to remain in the competition.

The four all performed duets with a host of big names, including Rihanna, Christina Aguilera, Robbie Williams and Black Eyed Peas star Will.i.am.

Cardle has already been tipped to top this year's Christmas singles chart.

(by Jason Gregory)