Sir Tom Jones claims he was 'fired' from The Voice UK after 14 years on show

Sir Tom Jones has announced his exit from The Voice UK judging panel, claiming he was 'fired'.

ITV initially confirmed that Jones would be departing from the series, with a source telling the press: "ITV absolutely loves working with Sir Tom.

"They are in talks with him and are hopeful he will return to the series."

The Welsh singer, 86 - who had appeared on the competition's judging panel since it began in 2012 - released a statement, however, claiming he 'did not want to leave', but had been forced out by ITV producers.

"To be clear, I did not want to leave The Voice as I love the show and really appreciate the audience," Jones wrote online. "ITV made this decision – obviously a while ago, and I was told just recently.

"The reason given is because of a financial difficulty with insurance.

Jones shared a statement on Instagram, claiming he was 'fired' (Instagram/@realsirtomjones)

"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."

The musician alleged he'd been offered a 'much reduced' role on the show, and that he'd make an appearance, but wouldn't be involved in the show.

"I’m not thrilled about that," Jones continued. "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."

During the most recent instalment of the series, Jones appeared alongside McFly musicians Tom Fletcher and Danny Jones, as well as Black Eyed Peas alum Will.i.am and Destiny's Child star Kelly Rowland.

In the past, he's also sat side-by-side with several high-profile artists, including Jessie J, Olly Murs, Kylie Minogue and Rita Ora.

The 'It's Not Unusual' singer has also mentored a number of the show's winners, including S1's Leanne Mitchell, S7's Ruti Olajugbagbe, and Anthonia Edwards in series 11.

Jones has appeared on The Voice UK since 2012 (ITV)

Reports previously suggested that the rapper Aitch would be joining the series as a new judge, possibly taking over Danny and Tom's joint seat.

Others suggested Cheryl Tweedy (nee Cole) could be set to replace Tom Jones.

Neither rumours have yet been confirmed, however.

Filming for the incoming instalment of the hit reality TV series will begin in Manchester on Friday (11 Sept), with it expected to air next year.

Tyla contacted ITV for comment.