X Factor criticised for product placement

The X Factor has been criticised for breaching rules on product promotion, and for failing to curb the use of flashing lights in a performance by Cheryl Cole.

Ofcom investigated the hit ITV1 show over concerns that host O'Leary told viewers that they could download singles by its guest singers, Diana Vickers and Michael Buble.

On 17 October, O'Leary said: "If you want to download Diana's single, details at ITV.com/Xfactor". The same script was used as a basis for the 24 October show. During that broadcast, the error was noticed and the script was corrected for future shows.

In a separate ruling, Ofcom also criticised the screening of a pre-recorded performance by Cheryl Cole on 24 October, after receiving a complaint about the flashing lights.