X Factor finalist, Ella Henderson, has signed a record deal with Sony Music.

The 16-year-old, who came sixth in the talent show, confirmed the announcement on her Twitter page today (December 16).

She wrote: 'Thank u for your kind messages! X It's all of you who help to inspire my music!! I cannot wait for 2013.. #JustTheBeginning.'

On the same day, X Factor winner, James Arthur entered the UK Official Singles Chart at number one with his debut single, 'Impossible'.

Henderson's tweet sparked #EllaSignedToSony to become a leading worldwide Twitter trend.

Her father, Sean, is her manager and negotiated the deal which is said to have been a battle between four labels including Simon Cowell's Syco label.

Henderson's departure from the show was one of the series' biggest shocks, as she was in The Bottom Two together with winner, James Arthur.

Watch Ella Henderson sing for survival on The X Factor below: