With bookmakers suspending betting on the Military Wives taking the Christmas number one, Simon Cowell has shown his support for their cause.

The X Factor supremo tweeted his congratulations to the choir and the winners of his show, Little Mix.

He said: "Congrats to Little Mix & congrats to Military Wives.

"It's a great cause & a worthy Christmas No.1".

Gareth Malone's choir, brought together on the BBC2 series, have released a single, Wherever You Are.

It's inspired by letters to and from their soldier husbands which will raise money for forces' charities.

Ladbrokes closed the book on them when they were 1/20 favourites ahead of current chart-toppers Little Mix at 8/1.

The ladies have been backed by figures such as Radio 2 presenter Chris Evans.

They also performed at this year's Festival of Remembrance at the Royal Albert Hall and at the Strictly Come Dancing semi-finals.

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