Things looked pretty different for Sam Bailey a few years ago.

The mum-of-three was working as a prison officer at HM Gartree, performing on cruise ships and getting gigs at music festivals when she could.

Never really believing she was destined for stardom, Sam applied for The X Factor in 2013 and quickly stole the hearts of the nation, mentored by Sharon Osbourne and going on to win the show that Christmas.

Now Sam is right at home performing to thousands of people, and is set to return to the stage later this year for her next UK tour.

Starting in March, Sing My Heart Out – also the name of Sam’s new album - will see the star travel up and down the country delighting fans with a host of new hits.

And part of her 32-date tour will be a visit to Cambridgeshire, where she’ll perform at The Cresset in Peterborough on March 30 before making her way to the Cambridge Corn Exchange on April 29.

Sam said: “For me, nothing is more rewarding than getting the chance to share my music with my fans live.

“My fans are so diverse, so there’s something for everyone from ballads to dance track and poppy numbers. There’s nothing worse than an album or show where every song is the same.”

Knowing how hard it is to break into the music industry, Sam is keen to give new artists a boost and has lined up Sally Rea Morris to support her when she appears at Peterborough.

She’s billed as one to watch on the UK country scene, and has recently returned home after 12 months in the US, singing her way around 39 states.

Sally said: “I felt so privileged when Sam personally invited me to open for her on the tour. It’s a great chance to perform in front of her wonderful fans. I hope I do her proud.”

Sam is also set to be supported by Niki Loy for the rest of her tour, who’s already won an award for her video single Can I Keep You and which was featured at the BBC’s Music Video Festival.

Sam’s new album is available to buy in time for her live shows, and features new songs such as Echo, Don’t Cry For Me, and No Greater Love.

Sam will play at The Cresset, in Peterborough, on March 30 at 7.30pm and tickets are £31, or £75 for a meet and greet package.

The star will then travel to the Cambridge Corn Exchange on April 29 and tickets start at £27.

Meet and greet packages are also available here for £77.50, which includes a photo opportunity with the star and the best seats in the house.

To book, visit sam-bailey.com/tour.