Cowell backs global Talent contest

Britain's Got Talent boss Simon Cowell has said he is "excited" by the idea of the show's winners Spelbound and Diversity representing England in a global contest.

Asked backstage at the TV Baftas about the idea of a worldwide Got Talent competition, Simon said a previous international version of Pop Idol had been a "disaster" as all the judges had "wanted to be me".

He said the show would have to work without judges.

But he said of having one big spectacle, the idea that "Spelbound or Diversity would represent England... really excites me".

Simon said gymnastic troupe Spelbound's win on Britain's Got Talent last night was "100 per cent" the right decision. He said: "You can make cases for other people on emotional levels ... they were undoubtedly the most talented act we had the whole series and they stepped it up for the final... I'm really happy for them."

Simon said he could team up with Piers Morgan and Amanda Holden to take part in UK commentary and make remarks about contestants. He said: "I like the idea of England taking on other countries," adding: "And after the Eurovision disaster we have got to do something about that."

Simon said: "There is an incredible amount of talent around the world at the moment and that's why we make the shows."

Simon made the comments after Britain's Got Talent won its first Bafta - for best entertainment programme.