Simon Cowell has said it would be a “complete disaster” and vowed to leave the country if John and Edward won The X Factor.

The music mogul said the twins, who have wowed TV audiences with their comedy routines, were “completely deluded”

But he admitted that the 18-year-olds were “lovely” people.

John and Edward, who have been nicknamed Jedward, are understood to have come first in the public vote last Saturday following their performance of Ricky Martin's She Bangs.

In an interview with Daily Mirror, Cowell admitted he would have to accept the public's opinion if the pair won.

But he added: “If they win it would be a complete disaster. I would get on a plane and leave the country then sulk for about six months and Louis will be in serious trouble.

“It is a singing contest and they can't really win. They are not the act we are looking for when we started."

The X Factor continues on ITV on Saturday.