The X Factor 2015: Simon Cowell to start auditions on Wednesday following the death of his mother Julie, aged 89

Simon Cowell is set to start auditions for The X Factor on Wednesday, following a rescheduling in the wake of the death of his mother, Julie.

The original schedule for the Manchester auditions was Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday of this week, but following the news that his 89-year-old mother had died, they were cancelled.

But an X Factor Spokesperson tonight announced in a statement: “We can confirm that The X Factor auditions scheduled for tomorrow (Tues) have been cancelled. We will now start auditions in Manchester on Wednesday and Thursday this week."

Cowell's family confirmed the news of their mother's passing in a statement.

It read: "Today our beloved mum Julie passed away. Anyone who had met her would know what a truly special and kind lady she was.

"We are heartbroken and will miss her terribly, but she is now at peace."

Cowell's brother Tony also took to Twitter where he wrote: "Very sad night tonight. We will all miss Mum so very much. She was the heart and soul of our family."

A raft of close friends and stars have since tweeted their condolences.

Sinitta posted: "Dearest beloved friend died today, so lost without her, but the finest, happiest memories and lessons remain of my Beautiful Mother-Look."

X Factor presenter Olly Murs also tweeted, writing: "My heart goes out to @SimonCowell and his family today #RIPJulie."