Speaking at the official launch of the X Factor in London on Wednesday of this week, the delectable Dermot O’Leary revealed that he rang sacked host Kate Thornton before the news of his appointment became public and got her blessing.

He revealed: “I called Kate the day I took the job before it went out and it was important for me to do that. She was very gracious and a lady.

“The way I look at it is, it’s a job. There is a fraternity amongst presenters but we’re not coal miners, I mean I’m not a scav. Kate finished with the X Factor and it was all done very above board.”

He added: “I was offered the job and it’s the biggest show on television, so I’m not going to turn it down.”

Aaaaahhhhh, couldn;t you just eat him!!