There was a lot of talk last year about the X Factor’s move to ‘Britain’s Got Talent’ style auditions. Many felt it was unfair that the show’s nervous contestants, many of whom were just 16 years old, should have to perform immediately in front of massive crowds.

Those criticisms haven’t been taken to heart, though, and it has now been confirmed that the X Factor 2010 will include live auditions – because it’s thought they lead to better ratings.

“The auditions were criticised but the series as a whole felt much bigger, borne out by the ratings. It was the most successful yet.”, a spokesman for the show was quoted as saying.