Simon Cowell plans to steam up X-Factor with free grog

Simon Cowell is reportedly planning to supply UK X-Factor contestants with free booze to get the romance flowing.

According to The Sun, the music mogul has ordered that cameras but put in the finalists' bedrooms in an effort to capture as much scandal as possible.

Last night, Sunday, 250 entrants checked in to the four-star Selsdon Park hotel in Croydon, South London, for the boot camp stage of the auditions, and were welcomed with free champagne and cocktails.

Those who make it through to the live finals will move into a mansion where the fridges of those old enough to drink will apparently be stocked with booze and late-night pool parties will be encouraged.

A source told the newspaper: "Producers want scandal, sex and break-ups. They know it will freshen up the series and boost ratings. The house is going to be one long party for the singers. And it will all be filmed to titillate viewers."

And a second insider added that many wannabes have been chosen because of their looks and "romantic availability" in a bid to steam things up.

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