Cowell enjoys Christmas on exotic island

X Factor judge Simon Cowell spent Christmas Day on a Barbados beach with girlfriend Terri Seymour and his mum.

The British music critic, 45, enjoyed the festive season in the sun on the West Indies island with his family including brother Nicolas - although he was unimpressed by his lover's gift.

Cowell says: "As soon as Terri and I woke up at 10am on Christmas Day, we opened our presents. I can't say I was overjoyed with my main present - two radio-controlled cars from my mother and Terri.

"It's not as though I have a secret penchant for such things. I haven't taken them out of their boxes yet. I also got some clothes including a shirt from Gucci, some picture frames and some aftershave - typical Christmas presents, really.

"Because it's 80 degrees, we spent the whole day on the beach and had a traditional meal with roast turkey at a beach restaurant."

As for Santa Claus arriving on a motorboat, Cowell prefers his entrance last year.

He adds: "It was pretty cool, but I thought last year was more impressive, when he parachuted in."