X FACTOR winner Sam Bailey has been announced as the headline act for the Swindon & Wiltshire Pride this summer.

The 39-year-old was the winner of the tenth series and her debut single ‘Skyscraper’ reached Christmas number one in 2014.

Since then, she has gone onto further singing success when her debut album, The Power of Love stormed to the top of the UK album charts in the same year. Sam is currently taking centre stage on a nationwide tour.

Last August, the town was transformed into a carnival of colour as hundreds of rainbow flags lined the streets for the Pride celebrations.

Making the announcement over the weekend, organisers hope the addition to the bill will attract even more people to the town for a similarly successful weekend when pride takes over Town Gardens on July 29.

The annual parade, which is made up of hundreds of people in bright and sparkling dress, marches through Old Town to a chorus of pounding drums and loud cheers and this year Pride is celebrating its tenth anniversary in Swindon.

The theme is celebrating freedom to mark the 50th anniversary of the decriminalisation of homosexuality for England and Wales in 1967.

Jo Sharpe, Swindon and Wiltshire Pride Chair, speaking at the time of the date announcement, said: “Year on year Swindon & Wiltshire Pride has grown to become the vibrant and welcoming community event that people look forward to.

"To announce the date of our tenth year is momentous, and all those involved in the past and present events can be rightfully proud of their achievements and celebrate the help and support they have given in making this great event happen.

"Without our army of dedicated volunteers, amazing acts, and commitment from the service providers, sponsors and supporters of pride, the event would not be celebrating its tenth birthday this year.

"So I’d like to take this opportunity to say a great big thank you to all those involved.”