Il Divo in US album chart triumph

Il Divo beat Kate Bush to top the UK albums chart in November

Operatic quartet Il Divo, who are backed by X Factor and American Idol judge Simon Cowell, have gone straight to the top of the US albums chart.

Their album Ancora sold more than 150,000 copies in its first week, knocking actor-turned-R&B singer Jamie Foxx off the top spot.

"This is a dream come true for all of us," said Cowell.

"I am especially delighted for the four boys, who, over the last 12 months, have worked incredibly hard for this."

Cowell formed the group in late 2003 after a two-year international talent search.

Their second album topped the charts in nine countries, including the UK, Canada and Australia, when it received its international release in November.