JAMES Arthur’s biggest tour to date came to an emotional end when he put on one of the performances of his life at the Bournemouth International Centre.

A sell-out crowd lapped it up as he showed off his versatile soul, rock and hip-hop inspired style.

He opened with the title track of his second album, Back From The Edge, a soul-searching number with references to parts of his troubled past.

He’s a nice bloke and he’s made sure it’s no secret that parts of his life have been dogged by anxiety and depression.

And last night he told how entering the world’s biggest talent show was “a hell of a chance” and thanked everyone for their support.

James won X Factor in 2012, the same year in which favourite Ella Henderson came a shock sixth place.

So it was nice to see him invite Ella back on to the stage to perform with him after an impressive set as his support act.

There was a mixed crowd in the BIC, clearly showing he’s retained fans from the X Factor days and picked up a lot of new ones in the intervening five years.

A tribute to George Michael came in the form of Careless Whisper, confetti rained down and he played a song called Can I Be Him?, written on a visit to Bournemouth.

You’re Nobody ‘til Somebody Loves You incorporated Cry Me A River and someone in the crowd got so wrapped up in the emotion of it all they proposed on the spot.

He saved the best until last with Naked, Sun Comes Up and Say you Won’t Let Go all performed in the encore.

It was the final show of a nine-date arena tour which has secured James Arthur as a force to be reckoned with. He’s definitely here to stay.