Louis Walsh has claimed that Strictly Come Dancing bosses have made a “massive mistake” in sacking judge Arlene Phillips.

“They’ve made a massive mistake sacking Arlene. She knows more about dancing than anyone else,” he told The Mirror.

The X Factor judge says that Arlene’s departure may actually win viewers for his ITV show, he insists that the XF judges are not worried by the move.

“They think it’s funny that Strictly brought in Alesha to attract younger viewers,” said a source. “Most young people aren’t drawn to ballroom dancing. Nothing will change that.”