Rylan Clark axed from the X Factor

Rylan Clark was voted off the X Factor last night (Rex Features)

Rylan Clark is the latest hopeful to be given their marching on orders from the X Factor.

The spray-tan loving Essex boy was ditched by a trio of judges on the ITV show after finding himself in the last two of the public vote.

The 24-year-old novelty act, who has won over legions of fans with his quirky, colourful performances, had a dignified exit, smiling and saying: "It feels so right.

"I have had seven bonus weeks in this," referring to the fact he thought he would be out much earlier.

Rylan exited after a mixed showing in last night's battle of the final five contestants.

Not blessed with the most oustanding voice, the likeable figure attracted criticism from judge Gary Barlow for his renditions of Abba's Mamma Mia and his Supremes medley.

It was "too Eurovision" said the Take That star.

Rylan's mentor the former Pussycat Doll Nicole Scherzinger was the sole judge to think boy band Union J - also in the last two of the vote - should go home.

In the sing-off, Rylan sang Athlete's evocative smash hit Wires.

Barlow - a regular critic - described it as one of Rylan's best performances.

Union J won the day with their version of Snow Patrol's Chasing Cars.

The show featured performances by Rihanna and Bruno Mars.

The competition is down to the final four now - James Arthur, Jahmene Douglas, Union J and Liverpudlian Christopher Maloney whose success tonight was again booed by the studio audience.

PA