MATT Cardle was 11 years old when he knew being a singer-songwriter was all he wanted to do.

In 2010, after a decade hammering at the industry’s door, he won The X Factor.

No longer under Simon Cowell’s umbrella, Cardle runs his own empire now, granting him the creative control he’d always wanted.

On Friday February 28 Matt comes to Bridgwater’s Blake Hall, after twice postponing due to a burst blood vessel, then after checking into The Priory for a recuperative stint.

He spoke to Chard & Ily reporter DAISY BLACKLOCK...

How are you? I really hope you’re feeling better. More recuperated?

“I feel absolutely brilliant – better than I ever have actually.

“I took a whole month off to recharge the batteries at the start of the year, but I’m enjoying being creative again and can’t wait to hit the road in April.”

How have the fans been since your NYE announcement on Twitter that you were “getting yourself better”? They must have been supportive.

“The support from the fans has been incredible – a real strength.

“Ultimately, I had to do what I did for myself, but I also wanted to do it for my fans.

“They’ve been so loyal, and I wanted to be looking and sounding my best on tour in April.

“I always love reading their messages on Twitter, and during the real low moments of last year it was one of the few things that kept me going and not giving up.”

Your Somerset fans are itching to see you!

“It’s my first time in Somerset and I’m SO excited.

“I had to re-schedule the date twice, so it feels like it has been a long time coming, but I’ll make sure the wait has been worth it.

“Every show is different and I love adding in a song that isn’t on the set list, but only if the crowd make enough noise!”

Porcelain, your third studio album, launched in October. What’s special to you about this album, and this stage in your career?

“Porcelain has done really well. I’m very proud of the album.

“The duet with Melanie C, Loving You, got such a great reaction from everyone, so that was a special way for me to kick things off.

“I was a little gutted to miss out on my third top 10 album by one place, but a friend texted me the other day to tell me I’m the only UK male artist to have three consecutive top 20 albums in the past three years, so that made me feel better.

“I’m just about to release the third single, Hit My Heart, on March 31, which has had a great reaction from everyone.”

Is there anything else you’d like to add?

“I’d like to say a huge thankyou to everyone for the love and support I still receive almost four years after leaving X Factor – it really is incredible.”

• MATT Cardle gives his ‘Unplugged’ gig at Bridgwater’s Blake Hall on Friday. Doors open at 7pm. Tickets cost £17.50 in person from the Blake Hall, on 01278-422959, 07723-377500, or www.seetickets.com