Sir Tom Jones says he didn't want to leave ITV's The Voice

Sir Tom Jones has said ITV "fired" him as a judge on The Voice, and he did not want to leave as he "loves the show".

The 86-year-old singer from Treforest in Pontypridd, Rhondda Cynon Taf, has appeared as an on-off coach on the singing competition since it premiered in 2012.

Following rumours that he may not return to the panel for the upcoming series, Sir Tom said the broadcaster decided a while ago, but he "was told recently".

He said on social media that he had been offered a reduced role - one he was "not thrilled" about.

ITV has been asked to comment, but the Press Association (PA) reported that a source at the show was "hopeful" the singer would return for its upcoming series.

In a social media post, Sir Tom said: "The reason given is because of a financial difficulty with insurance.

"They now say in the press they wanted to 'refresh' the show, and with a new coaching line-up there wouldn't be a chair for me.

"They are offering a much-reduced role where I would make an appearance but without being actually involved from the start, and I'm not thrilled about that.

"So the only thing I know right now is that there's never a good time to fire an 86-year-old who's still pretty good at his job."

The programme's 2027 series was due to begin production soon.

PA quoted a show insider, saying: "ITV absolutely loves working with Sir Tom. They are in talks with him and are hopeful he will return to the series."

In the most recent series of The Voice UK, Sir Tom featured as a coach alongside McFly stars Tom Fletcher and Danny Jones, as well as US rapper Will.i.am and Destiny's Child singer Kelly Rowland.

Sir Tom has appeared alongside many famous coaches during his tenure on the show, including singers Jessie J, Olly Murs, Kylie Minogue and Rita Ora.

He has also mentored three winners on the programme, Leanne Mitchell in series one, Ruti Olajugbagbe in series seven and Anthonia Edwards in series 11.

Sir Tom, who is known for hits including Green Green Grass of Home and What's New Pussycat?, has enjoyed a successful music career stretching over six decades.

He has achieved three UK number one singles and four chart-topping albums, as well as winning one Grammy, two Brits and an Ivor Novello Award.

Sir Tom was knighted by Queen Elizabeth II in 2006 for his services to music.

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