X FACTOR chiefs have sent a secret memo to the show’s presenters – telling them to back twins John and Edward Grimes in public.

In a leaked document obtained by TV Biz, they urged hosts Dermot O’Leary and Holly Willoughby to support the Irish lads’ place in the final 12 contestants during interviews.

The memo – also sent to PR staff – says it would “be great to defend John and Edward”, who survived the public vote to stay on the show last night.

Thousands have joined Facebook groups opposing them and TV Biz is campaigning to “Bin The Twins”.

But insiders say they are worried about the backlash the teenagers have received from X Factor fans, who are amazed they were put through to the live singing rounds.

A source said: “Bosses didn’t expect the twins to get such a bad reaction from the public. They want people on their side.”

When TV Biz spoke to Dermot O’Leary on Friday he said he loved the twins.

The memo also ordered Dermot and Holly to say rival judges Dannii Minogue and Cheryl Cole “get on and always have”.

Last year’s series was hit by rumours of feuds between Cheryl and the Aussie star.

The document told staff to say the show doesn’t actively seek out sob stories after including acts like teenage single mum Stacey Solomon and third-time lucky wannabe Rikki Loney.

It urged them to dismiss “in a light-hearted way” Louis Walsh’s comments about knowing he wouldn’t win with John and Edward, Kandy Rain or Miss Frank.

Our source added: “Even Simon Cowell was annoyed with what Louis said. He made it sound as if he didn’t care about his acts. Producers don’t want viewers to think that.”

The memo also encouraged them to speak in favour of The X Factor’s new live audition format – slated by viewers as too similar to Britain’s Got Talent. It told them: “You all love the new format.”

JOHN and Edward had been due to perform a Boyzone song if they took part in the sing-off last night. They changed plans after the tragic death of Stephen Gately.