X Factor legend Joe McElderry shows off his incredible weight loss as he hits the beach in Barbados

JOE McElderry has showed off his incredible weight loss as he soaked up the sun during an idyllic beach day in Barbados.

The singer, 32, won the X Factor when he was just 18 years old in 2009 - beating the likes of Stacey Solomon, Olly Murs, Rachel Adedeji and Jedward. 

And now 15 years later, Joe looked in high spirits as he displayed his toned physique while enjoying a day by the beach during his tropical getaway to the Caribbean island.

The star looked full of confidence as he stripped to navy blue swimming trunks, displaying his sun-tanned frame.

Making the most of the hot weather, Joe enjoyed a refreshing dip in the ocean.

The West End star has spoken openly out about his body in the past, admitting he had been cruelly trolled over his weight.

Speaking on Loose Women in 2016, Joe said he doesn't advertise unhealthy diets.

He said: "I never promote anything apart from being healthy and fit. That is my message, doesn’t matter what shape or size you are."

X Factor winner Joe managed to see off Olly Murs to snatch the crown in the show's high-flying heyday - and he is still performing today.

He got a record deal with Simon Cowell's Syco as part of his 2009 prize and went on to release five Top 20 albums.

However, he was dropped by the label in 2011, after his single Someone Wake Me Up only sold a reported 7,000 copies.

He went on to appear in several reality shows including Popstar To Operastar, The Jump and in 2014 kicked off a 50-date UK tour.

Joe later began a long run of musical turns, including appearing in the title role of Joseph and the Amazing Technicolour Dreamcoat.