UNIVERSITY graduate Matt Stiff is set to get a taste of real pop touring.

Matt, 24, and his band G4 - bidding for fame in The X Factor television show - are to boldly go where many superstars have gone before.

They, and the rest of the X Factor finalists, have announced a tour of Britain's arenas.

The 10-date tour will include Newcastle, Manchester, Sheffield and Wembley.

G4, who are favourites to win the TV show, will be joined by the eight other finalists, including Verity, Tabby and Voices With Soul.

Matt obtained a degree and a master's degree while studying music at Huddersfield University.

He said of The X Factor show: "This is what I've dreamed of, getting up on stage and performing live."

He and the band were formed at the Guildhall School of Music in London and their opera-style singing has captured viewers' hearts and votes.

The arena tour is next February. The TV show ends in December.

Simon Cowell, one of the TV judges, said: "We are very excited to be announcing this tour.

"The X Factor Live Tour is a continuation of the show and people can expect the unexpected."

For details, ring 0870 735 5000.