X Factor runner-up Ray Quinn has announced he's coming to Blackburn for a gig on October 9.

Despite coming second, Ray was snapped up by record label Sony BMG, alongside the winner Leona.

Ray originally found fame when he played bullied schoolboy Anthony Murray in now-defunct soap opera, Brookside.

That performance led to him winning the award for Best Dramatic Performance at the Soap Awards in 2002.

More recently he's been winning new fans across the pond during a trip to record his debut swing album at Frank Sinatra's old studios in Los Angeles.

After signing to Simon Cowell's label Syco Music, Ray Quinn's self-titled debut album will be released on the 12th of March 2007. This beautiful The album is a collection of Ray's favourite tracks, featuring songs originally performed by legends such as Dean Martin, Sammy Davis Jr. and Frank Sinatra.

Fans of the TV show will recognise Ray's versions of My Way, Ain't That A Kick In The Head, Fly Me To The Moon and That's Life.

"I was born in the wrong era really," he laughs.

"I'm probably the only 18 year old in Liverpool who knows so much about that kind of music.

"Instead of blasting out dance music in my car, I'll have a swing tune turned up loud! Everything about it is so cool."

After four million people voted for Ray in the highest rated final of The X Factor's history and six million votes across the series, he is keen to carry on with his success.

"I'm going to grab this amazing opportunity with two hands and enjoy every minute," he promises.

"I'm ready to work hard and go all out to let people hear my album so they can make up their own mind.

"I'm a very determined person and I'll do whatever it takes, because I still can't believe I have this chance. I'm honestly having the time of my life."

Ray Quinn plays King George's Hall in Blackburn on Tuesday, October 9. Tickets are priced £23 and go on sale at 9am on Monday, February 19. Call the box office on 01254 582582.