Alesha Dixon has finally put a stop to all the ‘will she, wont she?’ rumours surrounding her judging role on Strictly Come Dancing and confirmed that she WILL be on the panel for this year’s series.

Sources had previously suggested that the former show winner had decided to concentrate on her music career and would be replaced on Strictly by either Kelly Brook or Darcey Bussell.

Alesha had a tough first year when she replaced Arlene Phillips as judge. Many viewers criticised her for being ‘ too nice’ and started campaigns to get choreographer Phillips rehired. The comments did make Alesha consider quitting the BBC show, but she insists that giving up is not in her personality.

The former Mystique star told The Sun:

“There were split seconds where I thought I wouldn’t go back but I don’t believe in giving up, that’s not in my personality or character.

“If I set myself a challenge I like to complete it. I wouldn’t have taken the job if I didn’t feel I could.

“I rode the storm and everyone on set made me feel so welcome because I knew them from competing.”

Alesha also revealed that she has scheduled the release of her new album, so that it doesn’t conflict with her Strictly duties. On what type of music fans can expect she elaborated:

“I’m really excited it’s nearly finished. I feel like I’ve made the record that people thought I would have made when I left Mis-Teeq.

“There is a lot of attitude. A line in one song says ‘It’s back to the old Alesha flow.’ I really feel like what people first knew me for is back.”