By Neal Wallace

X Factor contestant Frankie Cocozza has left the show after "breaking competition rules".

The 18-year-old has issued a statement apologising to his mentor, Gary Barlow, as well as his fellow contestants and fans of the show, claiming his life had "gone out of control" while taking part in the show.

Having been the subject of an Ofcom investigation after apparently swearing on a live show, the singer also boasted of cocaine taking and promiscuity with others competing in the contest.

Mentor Gary Barlow said that he was "hugely disappointed that he's thrown away an opportunity like this after working so hard to get here".

The X Factor confirmed Cocozza's departure and said that the producers and judges "wish him all the best for the future".

Former X Factor contestant Faye Bray was apparently sacked from her role as a prison officer after wearing outfits that "mesmerised" young inmates. She had appeared on the ITV show wearing a basque and stockings.