Thornton 'holds grudge' against Cowell

Kate Thornton has reportedly admitted that she has not forgiven Simon Cowell for axing her from The X Factor.

The TV host fronted the ITV1 talent search for three years before being dropped in 2007. She was replaced by Dermot O'Leary.

Thornton later revealed that she felt "let down" as she had been "assured privately and publicly" by Cowell that her job was safe.

"It did hurt and I was gutted. I still hold grudges," The Sun now quotes her as saying. "I think the way it was done hurt the most, and I was shocked when I found out.

"I think I did a good job on the show. Thanks, Simon."

Cowell is now said to be planning further changes for the programme's next series. Reports suggest that Dannii Minogue will be replaced by a male judge in 2009.