Gary Barlow gets the vote as X Factor judge

Take That star Gary Barlow has been "confirmed" as a judge on the new series of the X Factor.

The former boy-band heart throb singer will take the place of Simon Cowell, who will front the show in the United States.

Cowell, who spoke to reporters as he arrived for filming of the US show, said: "Gary Barlow is the first person confirmed."

Last week it was announced that Girls Aloud star Cheryl Cole will accompany Cowell on the American version of the talent show, leaving one more position to be filled on the UK judging panel.

Barlow is expected to be joined by returning judges Dannii Minogue and Louis Walsh on the ITV1 show.

The musician will have to fit in filming between dates on Take That's sell-out tour, which begins on 27 May at Sunderland's Stadium Of Light.

The band, complete with Robbie Williams, will play three nights at Hampden Park in Glasgow, 22-24 June.