An X Factor hopeful has been axed from the show before it has even begun, after hidden cameras in a dressing room caught him using drugs.

In June it was reported ‘spy cameras’ were being installed backstage to give fans an ‘access all areas’ perspective to the show, and last month numerous auditionees were said to have been recorded stealing cosmetics and perfume from the dressing rooms.

The Sun now reports how Danny Egan and his wife Keeley were immediately told to leave the Liverpool auditions. “This was jaw-dropping stuff. No-one knew what to do,” a source said.

A spokesperson added: “This was an isolated incident and the contestants involved did not perform before the judges. Contestants are made aware when cameras are filming them.”

Egan has since spoken of the incident and insisted his wife had no part in taking the illegal class B drug mephedrone.

He told the paper: “I set up lines in front of the mirror, and had no idea my face was six inches from a camera. I’m sorry and feel really bad for my wife. She didn’t do anything wrong.”

Producers did not contact police, but the pair have been banned from all Talkback Thames shows. Do you think installed the hidden cameras has been a worthy move by producers?

Keep it central!