Strictly Come Dancing dancer Brendan Cole has hit out at the decision to pit Strictly against the X Factor this year.

Last week, the BBC admitted that they would be scheduling Strictly to air at the same time as ITV’s X Factor.

Speaking to The Mirror, Cole commented: “I think it’s a shame that two great shows have to compete. I don’t quite get the understanding of it.

“Obviously the BBC and the powers that be decide the scheduling. It’s got nothing to do with me. But I think it’s sad that people are going to have to flick between the channels and not see either of the great shows in their entirety.

“I don’t think it’s necessary. There’s enough time for both.”

A Strictly insider admitted: “Brendan’s comments probably won’t go down well. The row over the scheduling hasn’t been the best build-up to the programme and execs are annoyed that it is overshadowing everything.”