Take That's 'The Circus' is outselling Britney Spears new album by fourteen copies to one with some retailers.

The boy band's record shifted 20,000 copies alone yesterday with Asda - 7,000 copies more than the store's previous record holder, Leona Lewis.

Spears album, entitled 'Circus', has failed live up to expectations following her much-criticised performance on The X Factor last weekend.

The singer has been accused by fans of miming on the talent show, which usually showcases live performers.

She also appeared distant when interviewed by the show's host, Dermot O'Leary, after her performance.

Record companies faced a race against time to ensure that both albums were in the shops yesterday following the collapse of Woolworths’ CD distribution branch Entertainment UK (EUK).

The company stopped deliveries earlier this week after the high street store was put into administration.

As previously reported, Take That are currently atop of the UK singles chart with 'The Greatest Day'.

(by Jason Gregory)