It has been five years since we were first introduced to reality television star and pop music sensation Alexandra Burke, when we saw her for the first time on talent show the X Factor back in 2005 she was but an awkward, shy teenager, auditioning for the show at the tender age of 17.

She was knocked out during the Judges Houses stage of the show, but returned in 2008 knocking the socks off judges and viewers alike and went on to beat boy band JLS to be crowned the winner of series five.

A number one selling album, four hit singles and several award nominations later, Alexandra Burke is at the height of super stardom being the face of a new Dolce & Gabbana line and Sure and with her current offering 'All Night Long' peaking at number 8 in the UK charts.

In celebration of Burke's 22nd birthday we have compiled some pictures chronicling her mammoth rise to fame.