Keisha: 'Not my choice to leave Sugababes'

Keisha Buchanan has confirmed her departure from the Sugababes on her Twitter account, claiming that it was not her decision to leave.

The band's record label announced earlier this evening that she had left the group and would be replaced by Eurovision star Jade Ewen.

Buchanan wrote: "I've had a great time and have achieved more than I ever thought I would.

"Although it was not my choice to leave, it's time to enter a new chapter in my life. I have nothing but positive things to say about the girls and I wish them the best of luck. I would like to state that there were no arguments, bullying or anything of the sort that led to this.

"Sometimes a break down in communication and lack of trust can result in many different things. I would also like to point out that I have always supported the girls and they have also supported me."

She added: "I want to thank the Sugababes fans and my fans for all your support and all who have never judged me, but accepted me for who I am... The feisty, funny, professional, fearless motor mouth. This is not the end... but the beginning!"

Buchanan also admitted that she is "nervous" and "excited" about embarking on a career as a solo artist and is planning to "take some time to focus on me".