SIR – X-Factor concluded with Alexandra Burke the comparatively clear winner; another Leona Lewis in the making. The real winner, of course, is Simon Cowell, who will rake in more millions – yet he can’t afford a decent haircut!

Though fairly good at belting out a tune, the finalist had nothing on a par with the show’s star guests and mentors. Real music legends are such because of a ground-breaking imagination that comes from within; X-Factor finalists are just poor substitutes for these icons.

To make up for a lack of talent and originality, some even unashamedly use their cuteness or sob stories to win over the judges and voters.

Add expert voice coaches, choreographers and bags of hype and Britain is guaranteed another “musical success story” courtesy of Mr Cowell & co, but a lack of real, spontaneous talent usually means success will be brief.

Comparatively, Cliff Richard and The Shadows are gearing up for what will be a sell-out tour, celebrating half-a-century’s success in the music business. They may be deemed “cheesy” by today’s music critics, but will X-Factor winners be celebrating the same success in 2058?

Jim Varey, Bradford Road, Oakenshaw