The X Factor group formerly known as Rhythmix shared their name with a Kent charity (picture courtesy ITV/SYCO/Talkback Thames)

A Kent-based charity has reached an agreement with music mogul Simon Cowell's production company, after an X Factor girl group was given its name.

Rhythmix, which uses music to help disadvantaged young people, was forced to defend its trademark after SYCO, the company behind the hit ITV show, tried to register the name.

The complaint forced the girls, who are mentored by N-Dubz star Tulisa Contostavlos, to change their name to Little Mix.

SYCO has now agreed to withdraw its application for the trademark altogether and will make a donation to the charity.

Rythmix, which is based in Tunbridge Wells, said it wished Little Mix "the best in their endeavours" and thanked the public for their support.

Chief executive Mark Davyd said: "We're very pleased this has been brought to an amicable conclusion.

"These are difficult times for charities and other third sector organisations and we're happy we've been able to reach an agreement with SYCO to put this matter behind us."

Last week, the charity said it had spent £8,000 fighting the trademark application.

Little Mix – Jesy Nelson, 20, Perrie Edwards, 18, Leigh-Anne Pinnock, 19, and Jade Thirlwall, 18 – find out this evening whether they have made it through the latest round of the public vote.