Alesha to sign for next year's Strictly

Alesha Dixon is set to sign up to next year's series of Strictly Come Dancing.

The BBC said the 31-year-old has been doing a "first-class job" and it is looking forward to welcoming her back.

Alesha replaced 66-year-old choreographer Arlene Phillips on the judging panel of the dance competition, prompting an age row.

There has been speculation that the singer, whose initial appearance as a judge was slammed but who appears to have grown in confidence in her role, may bow out next year to focus on her music career.

But Alesha insisted she would be able to fit both jobs in to her hectic schedule.

A BBC spokesman said: "Alesha has been doing a first class job as a judge on Strictly Come Dancing and we look forward to having her back next year."

It is understood that contracts are due to be signed closer to the beginning of the next series.

Alesha, who rose to fame with Mis-Teeq, said: "The series has gone so quickly, I'll be quite sad when it finishes. I would love to do Strictly again next year.

"Obviously music is my first job, I'm making my second album and probably going to America but I can work round it so I can do both.

"I would absolutely love to do Strictly next year and I know they would love to have me back."