Louis Walsh hails 'X Factor' Cole

Louis Walsh has praised fellow X Factor judge Cheryl Cole.

Walsh said that the Girls Aloud singer, who brings her first year on the show to an end with tonight's final, has been a "great addition" to the panel.

"She's been fantastic on the show, a great addition to the team. She’s warm, she is talented and successful," he told The Mirror.

"Before the live shows she is really, really nervous. Sometimes she stands there shaking, but once she is on screen she is fantastic."

Walsh, who has previously admitted his seat on the panel isn't safe, also hailed Cole for how she has mentored her acts this year. However, he believes that his group JLS have what it takes to beat Cole's remaining artist Alexandra Burke tonight.

"Throughout the show she has really cared for her acts. But I am glad she has only one act in the final as I want to beat her," he said.

> Watch The X Factor press conference in full