SIMON COWELL - COWELL ATTACKS BOYLE PRESS COVERAGE

COWELL ATTACKS BOYLE PRESS COVERAGE

Simon Cowell has claimed that the recent press coverage surrounding Susan Boyle could harm her chances of forging a successful music career.

The Britain's Got Talent judge warned that Boyle - a church volunteer from Scotland - is in danger of becoming a "gimmick" meaning people will ignore her singing talents.

The 47-year-old spinster has become an internet sensation since her appearance on the reality show two weeks ago - making her an overnight star on both sides of the Atlantic for wowing the initially sceptical judges.

But Cowell told The People newspaper: "The problem is with all the substories about the cat and how she looks.

"I'm tired of hearing about the way she looks or the kissing, or this or that.

"Susan mustn't become a gimmick."

Boyle is set to appear in the semi-final stage of the programme next month.