[Smithy]

ITV has confirmed that The X Factor final will take place over the weekend of December 11 and 12.

Two two-hour shows will see the show crown its seventh winner, who will follow in the footsteps of previous stars including Leona Lewis, Alexandra Burke and last year's victor Joe McElderry.

The Saturday night show, which will run from 7pm to 9pm, will feature "big surprises" including "performances by some amazing international guest stars". It is unclear how many contestants will remain for the final. Seven singers are currently still in the running.

On Sunday, the final show will run from 7.30pm to 9.30pm. It has been confirmed that when the third place act leaves the competition that night, the top two will perform this year's winners single. The second live programme will also include "more international guest stars".

Prior to the Saturday night show, 2008 runners-up JLS will host their one-hour special This Is JLS , featuring a performance with Kylie Minogue.

The X Factor continues this Saturday at 7.45pm on ITV1.

I really hope they don't bring back a load of performs like they did last year, that was soo cheesy

On the + GaGa is free on the 11th of December