Louis Walsh has revealed that he is planning to start up a new boy band in the New Year.

The longest serving X Factor judge has revealed that he has auditioned thousands of hopefuls in order to find the best lads to be in the group.

He told The Mirror: "I'm doing a brand new boyband that will be ready to go next year. They're going to rehearse for the month of January, see the record companies in February and take it from there.

“No familiar faces, all new kids that have never been on a talent show or anything. I auditioned a thousand!”

Walsh also discussed his other plans for the coming year: "In 2014 all I want is to be happy and well. I just love to work in this business.

"I'll go to Miami for the whole month of January. I go there three months of the year. I have an apartment and I just love it, it's the best place in the world."