Dixon defies Cowell over 'pub act'

Britain's Got Talent judge Alesha Dixon showed she was not scared of show supremo Simon Cowell when she branded one of his favourite performers a "pub" act.

Sparks flew between the 33-year-old, who was poached from BBC rival Strictly Come Dancing, and Simon as the panel - including David Walliams and guest judge Carmen Electra - watched a multi-tasking musician perform on the first day of the London auditions for the sixth series.

Simon said the musician, who played a couple of guitars and a tambourine at the same time, was "absolutely brilliant" and "incredible".

Alesha agreed it was "talented and clever", before adding: "If I was in a pub, I would enjoy watching you ... but I would not want to see it again."

She held her ground despite her 52-year-old boss disagreeing vehemently with her, before the other judges had their say.

Former Baywatch star Carmen was standing in for Amanda Holden in the London rounds, who is still recovering after spending three days in a critical condition following the birth of daughter Hollie a fortnight ago.

Among the acts were a contortionist, acrobatic rock 'n' roll dancers and a cross-dressing band.

David Walliams' model wife Lara Stone was in the audience at the HMV Hammersmith Apollo in west London, wearing a bright pink jumper, which she teamed with a black pencil skirt and heels.

The new series of Britain's Got Talent will air in April on ITV1.