DIANA Vickers kicks off her pop career with her first headline tour in March next year.

Diana, who releases her lead single, Once, on April 19, will be showcasing material from her feverishly anticipated debut album.

After captivating millions of TV viewers in 2008 with her stunning voice, Diana has spent the last year making her record.

After signing a deal with RCA Records Diana started collaborating with musicians ranging from Guy Sigsworth to Ellie Goulding, Nerina Pallot and Lightspeed Champion.

The result is one of the sparkiest and unique pop records of recent years. The as-yet-untitled album will be released in late April.

Diana will kick off her UK tour in Bristol on March 20 before finishing in her home town of Blackburn on March 27. She will play Manchester’s Deaf Institute on March 25.

Tickets cost £10, and are available from gigsandtours.com or by ringing 0871 2200260.