Simon Cowell responds to gay rumours

X Factor judge Simon Cowell has admitted that he is baffled by rumours that he is secretly gay.

The music mogul has responded to suggestions from some fans that he is too effeminate to be straight.

"It's probably my mother's influence," Cowell told the Daily Mail. "If I was, why hide it? It's not as if the music business would be an odd place for a gay man to work. And anyway, if I was trying to hide the fact that I was gay, I would be off playing rugby every Saturday, wouldn't I?"

Simon has also spoken about his refusal to settle down and have children with his long-term girlfriend Terri Seymour.

"I love kids - at least when they are old enough to talk," he said. "But my own? No. I'm terrified of the responsibility. Where would they fit in? I have to be able to fly to Los Angeles at a minute's notice."