Simon Cowell has come under attack from child protection groups after he reduced the minimum age allowed for contestants on his British TV talent show The X Factor to 14 years.

Organisations including the UK's Family And Parenting Institute fear criticism from Cowell, notorious for his sharp tongue, could cause young participants to suffer emotional damage when their dreams of fame are crushed.

There are also worries regarding the 'wrong' message the show will send out about bullying.

A spokesman for the group says, "We are concerned about the impact that a barrage of criticism will have on young people.

"It could send an unfortunate message to other children about bullying. We expect the producers to give proper support and counselling for young people who are thrust into the spotlight by the show."

However, The X Factor broadcaster ITV1 refutes the claims, insisting younger contestants will be given thorough support.

An ITV1 spokeswoman says, "They will have a chaperone at all times. Criticism by Simon and the judges will be mitigated by the age of the youngest contestants."

But she admits Cowell will not hold back on his comments.