There is, however, another twist in this tale because Cowell's generosity did not go down at all well with his spokesman and friend, PR guru Max Clifford.

Clifford famously despises King and was partly responsible for putting him behind bars after three of the pop impresario's victims came to him with their stories of abuse.

"I didn't know about the bail money at the time, but obviously it has come out in conversation with Simon since," says Clifford. I have set him straight about what kind of man King is.

"And I know better than anyone since I spoke at length to several of King's victims and I am proud to say I have a letter from Surrey police thanking me for my help in putting this evil paedophile behind bars."

Clifford had the letter framed and has hung it in his Bond Street office.

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http://www.dailymail.co.uk/columnists/article-332299/Simons-shame.html#ixzz2wV3q3uZ1