Fearne Cotton: 'I found Cowell difficult'

Fearne Cotton has admitted that she found working with Simon Cowell on The Xtra Factor difficult.

The former presenter of the ITV2 spinoff show claimed that she enjoyed her time on the programme, but never felt totally comfortable in the role.

Speaking to Company magazine, she said: "I found it difficult with Simon Cowell, to say whether we actually ever got on. He's charming, a good giggle but, at the same time, you're always aware that he's this authority, and you respect that."

Cotton took over from Ben Shephard on The Xtra Factor in 2007, but was replaced after one series by Holly Willoughby. The Radio 1 DJ fronted rival Sky talent show Must Be The Music earlier this year.