Futureproof X Factor favourites

Futureproof have cemented their place as the favourites to win this year's X Factor.

The boyband, who were put together from soloist rejects at the Bootcamp stage, are being mentored by Simon Cowell and have been backed to 9/2 to win the show, beating their nearest rivals Daniel De Bourg and Leon Jackson.

Ladbrokes spokesman Nick Weinberg said: "Daniel and Leon looked on course to challenge Futureproof's favouritism. But Simon Cowell's act weathered the storm and are attracting more bets by the day."

Meanwhile, Welsh opera singer Rhydian still seems to be suffering from the effects of recent bad publicity, as he drops down in the betting to 20/1.

"Rhydian is going in the opposite direction - support for him dries up with every minute that passes," Nick added.

"If the Welshman performs as badly on the show as he has in the betting he's going to be in real trouble."

Brother and sister act Same Difference have their work cut out if they want to succeed. They are currently the show's outsiders on 33/1.