The X Factor host Caroline Flack said she “covered up” her stress with alcohol as her and Olly Murs’ presenting skills were panned.

The two were savaged by critics for stumbling over the autocue, talking over each other and Olly even mistakenly telling someone they were going home.

Olly Murs and Caroline Flack were criticised for the hosting of The X Factor
Olly Murs and Caroline Flack were criticised for the hosting of the X Factor (Daniel Leal-Olivas/PA)

Both left the show after one series and Dermot O’Leary has now been drafted back in to present.

The 36-year-old said she “wasn’t looking after herself” at the time.

She told The Sun: “I wasn’t feeling 100% healthy or 100% happy.

“I couldn’t turn to someone and say ‘fix me’ — I had to do that myself.

Caroline Flack at the Bafta TV awards
Caroline at the Bafta TV awards (Jonathan Brady/PA)

“I used to turn to wine if I had a stressful day. And I acted like it was a treat. But it’s not a treat.

“You’re just covering up your stress rather than dealing with it.”

Talking of her detractors, she said she has learnt to ignore them.

“Not everyone is going to like you so you have to filter it.”

Caroline starts presenting Love Island soon
Caroline starts presenting Love Island soon (ITV2)

Caroline begins presenting Love Island on ITV2 from Monday at 9pm.