Photo: WENN
James Arthur's winning single has set a new record for the fastest selling X Factor single since the show started in 2005.
The star's cover of Shontelle's 'Impossible' sold 187,000 digital copies by midnight last night (10 December) after only being on sale for less than 24 hours, and is set to sell even more once the physical CD goes on sale tomorrow.
The previous record holder was Alexandra Burke, who's debut single 'Hallelujah' sold 174,000 copies in the same period. Matt Cardle's track 'When We Collide' sold 112,000 and Leona Lewis's 'A Moment Like This' sold only 101,000.
James Arthur looks set for the number one spot on Sunday - but it's unknown if he'll beat Shane Ward's record for the best-selling opening week - Shane sold 742,000 copies of his X Factor single 'That's My Goal' in 2005.
James Arthur mobbed by fans during this weekend's X Factor finals
James took to Twitter to share his success with his followers, writing, "Wow just seen the figures for the single sales and it's blowing my mind! Thankyou all for buying it on iTunes #impossible"
Simon Cowell also showed that he's not overlooking The X Factor UK despite his commitments to the US version of the show, writing, "Looks like James Arthur is going to have a massive hit this week. Congratulations."
James responded, "Thanks Simon really appreciate it!"
Listen to James' winning single below:
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