The X Factor winner Ben Haenow has celebrated his 30th birthday today in style – by officially signing a record deal with Syco. The label confirmed on Twitter today that Haenow has put pen to paper on the deal.

He will begin recording his debut album later this month following his Christmas number one single, ‘Something I Need’.

Simon Cowell congratulated Haenow on the deal, saying: “Ben is a great talent and a great guy.

“I’m thrilled he is now officially part of the Syco family and can’t wait to get working with him on his first album. And happy birthday, Ben!”

Speaking to Digital Spy recently, Haenow listed Paolo Nutini and X Ambassadors among his influences. [Digital Spy]