Cowell has booster cushion and 'slimming' lighting on BGT

Simon Cowell has had a booster cushion and special lighting installed on the 'Britain's Got Talent' judging table - to make himself look taller and slimmer.

The music mogul has a panel of four lights shining on him when he is giving his verdict on auditionees, with insiders saying the flattering focus gives him a "healthy glow" and thins down his face.

A source told the Daily Mirror newspaper: "Simon started using these lights in the last series but over time he is getting more and more of them.

"He has four now. The lights give him a healthy glow and stop there being too much shadow around his chin and face. The idea is to make him look his best. He also gets regular touch-ups on his make-up between acts."

Pictures show that Cowell is the only judge with special lights in front of him.

It was claimed earlier this year that he also relies on a booster cushion to look taller alongside David Walliams, Amanda Holden and Alesha Dixon.

Ian Hunter, an audience member at the Glasgow auditions, revealed: "We went down the front to get a photo during one of the breaks and I noticed the booster seat.

"It's Simon down to a T. He's a small man with a big opinion and a big personality.

"Everyone I showed the photos to was laughing."

However, a spokesman for the judge and show boss has insisted the extra padding is just a cushion and not a booster seat.

He said: "It's not to make him look taller it's just a cushion he uses from time to time."

Cowell is thought to be around 5ft 8in in height, considerably shorter than 'Little Britain' comic Walliams, who stands at 6ft 2in.