Simon Cowell axes young 'Talent' star

Simon Cowell has left Britain's Got Talent star Connie Talbot devastated - by axing plans to sign her to his Sony BMG label.

The six-year-old was a huge hit with viewers when she appeared on the ITV1 talent show in June, and is best remembered for her performance of Judy Garland classic Somewhere Over The Rainbow.

"I'll make a prediction that Connie will sell more records that Joss Stone this year," Cowell said in June. "Of course a record deal with Sony BMG is on the cards. She could easily make a million quid-plus this year."

Talbot recorded two songs last month, and was once again promised that Sony BMG wanted to work with her. However, Cowell has now told Connie's parents to find a company that has experience of looking after children.

"Connie isn't singing for Sony BMG any more. Despite what we were initially told, Simon and his management team have changed their minds," Connie's father Gavin told The People. "It's very sad but that's the way it has swung. We were told of the decision about a week ago. It came as a huge surprise."

Mum Sharon added: "I don't want to fall out with anyone. And I respect Simon's decision. But I just feel a little let down. Connie's been on TV. But what for? They made a fantastic TV show, then left her with nothing."

However, Cowell insisted that he made the right decision in declining to offer the six-year-old a record contract, telling The People: "My views on Connie haven't changed. I think she's a wonderful talent. But I was persuaded by everyone at Sony BMG that she is just much too young to be embarking on a recording career.

"When the time is right I will be delighted to see if we can make it work. My views on Connie are still exactly the same. She's an amazing little girl with a beautiful voice."