Kelly Rowland has confirmed rumours that she will not be returning as a judge on the next series of the X Factor.

Rowland was snapped up by the show last year after a reshuffle of the judging panel, but her spokesperson told the Metro that "global commitments" meant that she couldn't fit the TV show into her schedule this year. They said:

"After much speculation, we can officially confirm today that Kelly Rowland has decided not to return as a judge again for this year's UK X Factor. Global commitments coupled with the show's increasing demands this year mean that, despite weeks of deliberation with the show, Kelly has not been able to agree a deal that fits into her autumn/winter schedule, so sadly cannot accept a place on the 2012 panel."

They continued: "Kelly thoroughly enjoyed her role as a judge on the show, but felt that if there couldn't be a workable solution to scheduling issues so that she could effectively juggle her other commitments then she couldn't wholeheartedly commit to the show this year."

Rowland meanwhile said in statement: "I love the UK and being part of the show last year. Mentoring the girls was such an incredible experience I will never forget. I would like to thank Simon for the great opportunity and asking me to be a judge last season."