X Factor winner Matt Cardle announces first solo tour

Last year's X Factor winner Matt Cardle has announced his first tour of the UK.

The 28-year-old will play 21 concerts across the country next February and March, ending with a gig at London's Hammersmith Apollo.

The singer and guitarist's debut album Letters made it to number two in the official album chart this weekend. He was beaten by Noel Gallagher's debut solo album.

Tickets for Matt Cardle's tour go on general sale this Friday 28 October.

The singer told Newsbeat last week that he wanted to put his time on The X Factor behind him.

He says a recent performance on the programme closed that chapter for him.

"That was my X Factor trip over," the said. "Now I have to get on with being Matt on my own with my band and writing and performing."

Former painter and decorator Matt Cardle beat Cher Lloyd and One Direction in last year's final.

The singer's tour dates are as follows:

Rhyl Pavilion - 28 February 2012

Rhyl Pavilion - 29

York Barbican - 1 March

Cambridge, Corn Exchange - 3

Oxford, Apollo New Theatre - 4

Birmingham, Symphony Hall - 5

Nottingham, Royal Concert Hall - 7

Bournemouth, Academy - 8

Swindon, Oasis - 10

Portsmouth, Guildhall - 11

Southend, Cliffs Pavilion - 12

Liverpool, Philharmonic - 14

Glasgow, Academy - 15

Newcastle, City Hall - 16

Belfast, Waterfront - 18

Manchester, Apollo - 22

Cardiff, St Davids - 24

Bristol, Colston Hall - 25

Plymouth, Pavilions - 26

Brighton, Dome - 28

London, Hammersmith Apollo - 29