‘X Factor’ finalist claims to be victim of a witch hunt

X Factor finalist Christopher Maloney claims he has been “bullied” and subjected to a “witch hunt” since finishing third on the TV talent contest.

The 38-year-old from Liverpool was voted off the show on Saturday, when he secured fewer votes than eventual winner James Arthur and runner-up Jahmene Douglas.

He did not appear in Sunday’s final, prompting speculation he had turned up with a hangover for rehearsals and insulted a fellow contestant.