Former X Factor winner Joe McElderry is to be dropped by his record label only 18 months after winning the coveted competition.

A source told the Daily Mail: “Joe is devastated. His mum has been comforting him.”

The source added: “He believed he could have a great music career. Although he is still on Syco's books, his deal runs out in about a month and it won't be renewed.

Joe McElderry shot to fame after winning the competition and was signed to the Simon Cowell record label, Syco however since his win his career has not been so impressive and he has failed to emulate the success of previous winners.

His latest concert was a support act for Jedward, the act that came sixth on the X Factor show, and is an indication of his failing popularity which secured him the win in the first place.

He had been touted by Simon Cowell as the UK's answer to Zac Efron when he won the show in 2009.

When he won, Simon Cowell said: “The first time I saw you I remember telling the other judges, This guy could actually win. I feel responsible for your success and very proud of everything you have achieved.”

Joe McElderry beat off Olly Murs to become the X Factor winner, however Olly has continued to record and recently released a new single which was received well by both the public and the critics alike.

Simon Cowell is now said to be focusing his attentions on the US version of the X Factor which is said to be hitting the screens in the US in the autumn where he hopes to seek out Americas next new singing superstar.