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X Factor judge Louis Walsh has defended the show following reported criticism from ex-contestant Mary Byrne.

The show changed its voting policy from a traditional 'public vote' at the semi-final stage to a 'judges vote' last weekend.

The 50-year-old Dubliner was voted off by the judges but said she hoped she would have beaten Cher Lloyd had it been decided by the public.

Walsh said the reports were untrue, adding: "It was not rigged."

Walsh added: "Simon [Cowell] might be a lot of things but he is 100% honest on X Factor.

"I thought it might have gone to the public vote and I thought that Dannii [Minogue] might have gone with her but she didn't.

"We never get to vote, we never know who is in the bottom two until Dermot calls it out."

The final will see Matt Cardle, Rebecca Ferguson, Cher Lloyd and One Direction compete to win the series.

Walsh said: "I think Matt is going to win but Rebecca is my favourite."