Chico has admitted that ITV bosses have banned him from wearing his prayer beads on the ice tomorrow night.

The former X Factor star replaced Chesney Hawkes as a contestant on Dancing On Ice and will make his debut on the rink on Sunday. However, as elated as he is about being given the opportunity to reinvigorate his career, Chico confessed that he is also disappointed that he won’t be able to have his beads on his person during the routine.

Chico told the Daily Star that producers banned him from wearing the accessory, due to health and safety fears and explained:

“Health and safety have said I can’t have my beads on the ice. They say they are a hazard.”

He added:

“It’s upsetting. I never go anywhere without them. They’re a part of me.”

Chico had some training on the ice, as he was one of the stand by contestants that bosses have waiting in the wings each year, however in terms of rehearsal time he is lagging behind many of the other celebrities.

The singer confessed that he is nervous about his routine, but will use prayer to help him combat the tension. He said:

“I always get nervous before a performance so I keep them close to me.

“But tomorrow I will just pray to God and meditate and connect to my spiritual master who will help me through the routine. I’m putting myself in his hands.”

Dancing On Ice returns tomorrow night on ITV1