20:13 17 August 2015
Veteran singer Sir Tom Jones has been axed from The Voice after being a coach for four years. Saying he was unceremoniously ditched with just one day’s notice, he accused the BBC of “sub-standard behaviour” for removing him from the programme “with no consultation or conversation of any kind.”
In his Facebook page, he said that he was told he would not be returning to the reality singing contest just 24 hours before the new line-up was announced.
He said: "In good faith, as part of the team, I'd put the time in my schedule to be involved in series 5, as I've done so for the last 4 years.
"I've supported the show and the BBC since the beginning.
"I was told yesterday, with no consultation or conversation of any kind, that I would not be returning.
"Having been through plenty of transformations throughout the years, I support and admire creative change.
"But being informed, as a matter of duty and respect, is an important part of creative relationships.
"This sub-standard behaviour from the executives is very disappointing."
"I will always admire the courage of the performers who participate in the show, as well as all the production staff who worked tirelessly to make a great family viewing experience for the audience at home.
"I wish the show well."