Frankie Cocozza, the party-loving UK X Factor hopeful, has been axed from the ITV competition.

The teenager had "broken competition rules", according to producers of the show.

Cocozza admitted: "I no longer deserve my place in the show."

His antics have already prompted an Ofcom investigation into the series.

The young wannabe has been pictured on a string of nights out since finding fame in the contest.

He made an impact in the early stages when he boasted that the names of some of his many lovers were tattooed on his bottom.

He said today that his life had "gone out of control" while taking part in the show.

As he left, he said sorry to his mentor, Gary Barlow, and fans who had been voting for him.

Many viewers were astonished that the singer remained in the competition following a below-par performance at the weekend.

Other acts were advising him to curb his behaviour to concentrate on the contest.

Andy Merry, of boyband The Risk - who were voted out on Sunday - said: "We've said to him 'You've got a great opportunity here, just calm down a bit'."

Cocozza said today: "I'd like to apologise to Gary, my fellow contestants and everyone who has voted for me, but, as of today, I will no longer be in The X Factor.

"My life during the show has gone out of control and my behaviour off stage has overstepped the rules of the competition.

"I no longer deserve my place in the show, so I am therefore leaving. I would like to thank everyone who has supported me."

A spokeswoman for The X Factor said: "Frankie is leaving the show today after breaking competition rules.

"He is going to take some time out before continuing his career as a singer. We wish him all the best for his future."