Gay hairdresser Marcus Collins has come second in the final of British singing talent contest the X Factor, beaten by girl group Little Mix.

The openly gay 23-year-old from Liverpool made it to the final vote after he and Little Mix won the first part of the TV final last night, knocking out soloist Amelia Lily.

The live final was held at London’s enormous Wembley Arena and broadcast on ITV. The prize is a record contract.

Soloist Collins’ songs for the final vote were Higher and Higher and George Michael’s last Christmas.