X Factor bosses to bring in fifth judge

X Factor producers are debating whether or not to add a fifth judge to the panel following Cheryl Cole’s refusal to vote last weekend.

Programme chief Simon Cowell is reported to be finalising the proposal after a brainstorming session with a group of 20 fans came up with ideas to improve the show.

The show’s credibility has come under attack after Cheryl said she was “refusing point blank” to vote against two of her acts.

Her decision not to vote led to Katie Waissel surviving a third sing-off on the show on Sunday as a result of the other judges’ majority decision.

Instead Treyc Cohen was sent home.