Louis Walsh has reportedly tried to stir up trouble between new judges Cheryl Cole and Mel B on the first day of The X Factor auditions.

Try-outs for the ITV talent show began in Manchester with the revamped judging panel - consisting of returning judges Simon Cowell and Cheryl, new regular Mel B and old pro Louis.

The Irish music manager tried to make things interesting from the off, according to the Daily Mirror, by stirring up rivalry between former girlband members Cheryl and Mel.

A show source said: "A girl group were one of the first into the auditions and Louis stirred things up straight away by asking if they preferred the Spice Girls or Girls Aloud.

"They said they liked them both so any huge row on the first day was avoided.

"Louis was giggling because he knows everything won't stay harmonious the whole way through and they will have differences."

Auditions were delayed in the afternoon when one hopeful's mother tried to impress the judges with food.

The insider revealed that a Chinese woman who was auditioning was accompanied by her mum, who brought a huge Chinese banquet and a cake for the judges.

The source added: "Simon saw the funny side and tucked in with gusto.

"But it meant there was a 20-minute hold up for the next act waiting to sing. It didn't do their nerves any good."

This year's auditions are going back to basics, with the first round of auditions just held in front of the judges. But a live audience is expected to be brought in for the boot camp round.

Radio 1Xtra DJ Sarah-Jane Crawford had her first day at work as the new host of The Xtra Factor and Dermot O'Leary returned as the host of the main show.