Simon Cowell has been appointed as a founding patron of Design Brighton, a new festival co-founded by his brother John, aiming to 'celebrate urban design and play a positive part in the rejuvenation of the region'.

The X Factor judge, whose father Eric was involved in the original development of Brighton Marina, which celebrates its 40th anniversary next year, said 'Brighton holds a very important place within our family because of my Mum and Dad and the time they lived in Brighton. It has always been a special place for me and my family as they absolutely loved living here! So, I’m obviously thrilled to be involved with Design Brighton'.