X Factor favourite tells tabloid he is bisexual

Danyl is a contestant on X Factor

A contestant on ITV1 show X Factor has told a Sunday tabloid that he is bisexual.

Danyl Johnston's performance on Saturday night, the first of the new series of the talent show, was well received, with judge Simon Cowell calling it "the best first audition I've ever heard."

The 27-year-old teacher from Reading is tipped to win the series.

He told the News of the World:

"I am a massive flirt.

"I wouldn't rule out someone just because of their gender.

"I haven't been in that many relationships, only about four.

"It's been a year since I was last with someone - that's horrible!

"I hate boxes, so I don't like to call myself gay, straight or bisexual.

"But yeah, I'll admit that I have dated men."

Danyl also admitted that he finds Simon Cowell sexually attractive, "because he has a feisty attitude."

The popularity of talent show X Factor shows no sign of abating - Saturday's audience peaked at 11.7 million viewers.