HE’S come a long way since The X Factor, that's for sure.

Olly Murs had a packed out crowd in Bournemouth swaying along to his Essex charm when he took to the stage as part of his latest UK tour.

With four number one singles and two platinum selling albums under his belt, it’s hard to believe that a few years ago Murs was an unknown, struggling artist.

He first shot to stardom on the audition stage of talent show The X Factor.

Sporting his now trademark cheeky smile and bundles of rhythm, it didn’t take long for him to be noticed. Now the young star is all over our TV screens – most recently as the co-presenter of spin-off show The Xtra Factor.

Mixing catchy pop tunes with love melodies, the singer’s infectious song writing really does cater for everyone and he proves it on stage. Popular tracks Heart Skips a Beat, Thinking of Me and Dance With Me Tonight were played during the night – much to the delight of the largely female audience. But he changed the pace constantly and even played some imaginative covers, including a James Brown classic.

As well as appearing in a striking suit and trilby hate, Murs impressed the audience with his interaction. At one point he asked for the lights to be on his fans – just so he could get a glimpse of the admiring banners.

Although he commanded the stage like a pro – including his slick dance moves – it’s easy to see he’s relatively new to the fame game. His shy, Essex charm is yet to disappear although his talent and fan base is definitely on the up.