CHRISTMAS is a time for family for singer Jahmene Douglas – and he will be taking a well-earned rest to enjoy the occasion.

The X-Factor star has been working non-stop since he joined the competition back in September but will be spending time with his loved ones tomorrow as they enjoy a Christmas they all deserve.

Thanks to the 22-year-old’s success on the show he has been able to buy his family, which includes mum Mandy, sister Corice and brothers Isaac and Darren, their first real Christmas tree.

The former New College student was also treated to a shopping spree at House of Fraser.

He said: “Christmas time has always been a time for family for me and that is what I will be doing this year.

“I have got us a real Christmas tree for the first time which is great, and a big shout out to House of Fraser who sorted me out with all my Christmas shopping.

“I am just looking forward to spending time with my family.”

Christmas came early for Jahmene this year after signing his first recording contract with Sony last week.

The X Factor runner-up was the latest contestant from this series to sign a record deal with the company, following in the footsteps of winner James Arthur, Ella Henderson and Union J.

The former Asda employee has also been getting in the festive spirit after recording a version of Silent Night for an Asda advert – a way for Jahmene to thank Asda colleagues and customers who voted for him on the show.

The church also plays a key role in his life and when he returned to sing as part of his homecoming he said that was where he felt truly at home.

“I hadn’t been to church for so long I think I needed it,” he said.

“Everyone who has been to the bottom needs something to help them get back up and the church and faith was my way of finding myself.

“Some people turn to something like alcohol but that is only masking your emotions. For me, church is uplifting and it gives you hope.

“There is always going to be gospel influences in my music.”

Jahmene will be giving fans a Christmas present of his own this year when he performs at Bushwackers on Boxing Day.

X Factor winner James Arthur performed at the same venue last night, where hundreds packed in to see the number one artist.

For information about tickets to see Jahmene, email sara@ bushwackers.co.uk or call 01793 698392.