X Factor judge Gary Barlow has released an official statement about the early departure of Frankie Cocozza, who quit his place on the show this afternoon (November 8).

Barlow has been mentoring the young singer since he was assigned to him in the 'boys' category and the Take That star has now spoken out about Cocozza's decision to leave The X Factor:

"Frankie has apologised publicly as well as personally to me and the producers for his actions that lead to him leaving the show. I'm hugely disappointed that he's thrown away an opportunity like this after working so hard to get here."

"I'm sorry to see him go as we've been through a lot together in such a short time. I hope frankie continues to look to me as a friend and supporter and works it all out, picks himself up and somehow tries to turn this into a positive."

The X Factor will return to television screens on Saturday, November 12.