Simon Cowell leads the Britain's Got Talent red carpet in Blackpool

Simon Cowell joined Amanda Holden. Alesha Dixon and KSI on the Britain's Got Talent red carpet in Blackpool.

The auditions started last week in Birmingham where unfortunately Simon Cowell missed a couple of days due to a migraine brought on by an accidental bump on the head.

This year Bruno Tonioli was unable to judge BGT due to commitments in America, so KSI has taken his place as a full time judge. During Simon's absence at Birmingham, Stacy Sololmon stood in to cover.

In other news Simon Cowell is now a patron of the wonderful Great Ormond Street Children's Hospital Charity.

Simon Cowell. Alyssa and Lauren Silverman - Photo Credit: Great Ormond Street Hospital

Announcing the news on social media Great Ormond Street said: We’re delighted to announce that Simon Cowell has agreed to become a patron of Great Ormond Street Hospital Charity.

Earlier this year, Simon visited Great Ormond Street Hospital and was inspired to support us by the stories of the staff, patients and families he spoke to. Patients like Alyssa, who met Simon at our recent clay pigeon shoot fundraising event as she shared her story and the impact that research had in helping her beat cancer. Simon’s impact is already being felt as he helped raise an incredible £1.1m for the new Children’s Cancer Centre at GOSH at the event.

We would also like to take this opportunity to say a huge heartfelt thank you to Lauren Silverman. As the co-host of our recent fundraiser event, Lauren’s leadership and vision has been instrumental in bringing it to life and making the event an incredible success.

Please join us in welcoming Simon aboard, his support can help us give seriously ill children the best chance and best childhood possible.