Sir Tom Jones returns to new series of The Voice

Virgin Radio

21 Oct 2016, 11:11

Sir Tom Jones is relishing his reunion with will.i.am as he returns to the big red chairs to find a new star on .

Jones had previously slammed the BBC for dropping him in 2015. He has admitted he is glad to be back on the panel as the talent programme moves to ITV.

Before auditions began, the singing veteran said: ''I'm looking forward to returning to my big red chair on The Voice UK.

''I had some great times on the show and I can't wait to again discover and help some brand-new talent. And of course be back with my pal will.i.am.''

Jones and will.i.am were joined by the show's new coaches singer Jennifer Hudson and Bush frontman Gavin Rossdale as five days of blind auditions began on Wednesday in Manchester.

The Voice UK will air in 2017, and the winner receives a record deal with Polydor Records.