One Direction star Harry Styles appears to have ended his reported controversial relationship with Xtra Factor host Caroline Flack - but denied that he dumped her.

17-year-old Styles spoke out on Twitter and talked publicly about the relationship that had been discussed for months in the media.

And he confirmed that the ending of their relationship was "mutual" and asked for fans to respect 32-year-old Flack.

He said:

"Please know I didn't 'dump' caroline. This was a mutual decision. She is one of the kindest, sweetest people I know. Please respect that."