Simon Cowell has been accused of creating fake X Factor groups out of falied solo artistd on this years X Factor TV show.

It has been reported that Mr Cowell is desperate for a group to win the show this year, but disappointed by the calibre of entrants, he asked some solo auditionees to form groups called Hope and Aspire, respectively.

An insider told The People newspaper: “It’s no secret that Simon Cowell wants a band to win this year – even if they have to fix it. Putting through made-up bands when other groups have spent months or years preparing just isn’t fair. It’s a fix.”

“Those chosen were embarrassed,” she continued. “They had all been at boot camp to audition as soloists and all been rejected. Then they were told they could have a second chance if they split themselves up into bands.

“It was too good an opportunity to turn down so they did it. You can’t blame them. But it’s so unfair on those groups who had legitimately gone through the audition process.”

A show spokeswoman refused to comment directly on the allegation. But she said: “There were twists and turns that rocked some contestants – it was part of the judging and decision-making process.”