Cole: 'Thank you for supporting me'

Cheryl Cole thanked people for supporting her after performing on The X Factor tonight.

The judge took to the stage to perform her new single 'Fight For This Love'. Despite initial reports that the performance would be pre-recorded, Cole decided to sing live.

Members of Girls Aloud and the popstar's husband Ashley Cole were in the audience, and after performing Cole said that she felt "incredible".

"I haven't had the chance to say personally, thank you all for the overwhelming support since I joined the show," she said. "Thank you so much for making me welcome, everyone. The production crew, you [Dermot O'Leary] and everyone at home.

"And I have to say thank you to Simon and, of course, Dannii."

Meanwhile, Cowell praised Cole's performance and joked: "I'll have you in my category any time.

"That was a fantastic performance and unfortunately you're going to be number one next week."