Scherzinger at X Factor auditions

Nicole Scherzinger has taken up her role as an official X Factor judge at the auditions in Newcastle.

Thousands of hopefuls flocked to the city's Metro Radio Arena today (Monday) to share their talents with the multimillion-selling Pussycat Dolls artist and her fellow judges, singer-songwriter Gary Barlow, N-Dubz singer Tulisa and music mogul Louis Walsh.

Nicole, who was wearing a summery green dress when she arrived at the event in a luxury car, said: "I'm so excited to join the UK X Factor family. It's where I got my start, so it feels great to come full circle.

"I can't wait to see what talent the UK has to offer and to help inspire and bring out the best in these artists."

The singer was a guest judge on The X Factor in 2010 and again this year in London during the auditions tour.

After taking a break from the group in December 2010, she released an album in 2011, claiming the No 1 spot in the UK charts with the single Don't Hold Your Breath.

Nicole also reached the top five with singles Poison and Right There.