Sharon Osbourne has decided to step down as judge from X Factor.

In a statement, Osbourne thanked fellow judge and series creator Simon Cowell and "the wonderful British public for their enormous support".

Osbourne, wife of rock star Ozzy Osbourne, has been a member of the judging panel on the British reality competition since it began four years ago.

The most recent series of the show was marred by rows between Osbourne and fellow judge Dannii Minogue, who the rock matriarch claimed had only been recruited by Cowell because of her appearance.

The producers of the hit talent show have yet to release a statement about Osbourne's departure.