Thousands watched the X-Factor winner at Albert Square

More than 15,000 people - including the singer's family and friends - attended the live performance in Manchester's Albert Square to promote his album.

The 21-year-old performed six songs, closing Monday's concert with Somewhere Over The Rainbow.

Ward told the crowd he was overcome by their reaction and said he was delighted to be back in his home city.

Ward won the ITV1 talent contest last year and clinched the Christmas number one with his debut single That's My Goal.

The song was the second biggest seller of 2005, with more than 300,000 copies selling in the first day alone.

Last year he performed the hit in Manchester's Arndale Centre - where he once worked as a shop assistant - to thousands of fans.