Marcus Collins

Marcus Collins

Marcus Collins has given the release date for his debut album.

The smiley scouser came second to girl group Little Mix in the final of the X Factor 2011, but now it's his time to shine.

He tweeted his excitement to over half a million of his followers, letting them know that his album is now available to pre-order before its release on March 12, and added: "BEEN WORKING NONE STOP !!! I HAD TO MAKE SURE IT WAS RIGHT !! I HOPE U GUYS LOVE IT! I DO! X. "OK!! BK TO WORK!! SEE U SOON! X."

Although it is as-yet untitled, it has been rumoured that the music man himself, Gary Barlow, has been involved in the writing process.

Gary was his mentor on the talent show, and speaking on The Xtra Factor, he said: "I'm gonna make sure he's looked after. We’re gonna stay in touch. I'll make sure he gets the right label, the right record deal, the right songwriters, the right album, because he’s been a pleasure to deal with."

It looks as though he has kept his promises.

Georgia Smith