X Factor 2014 judges: Mel B joins Cheryl Cole, Simon Cowell and Louis Walsh

The former Spice Girl has been confirmed for the next series' judging panel

Scary Spice Mel B will be joining the next series of The X Factor (Rex)

Mel B has been confirmed as the new fourth judge for the next series of The X Factor.

The former Spice Girl will join Simon Cowell, Louis Walsh and Cheryl Cole after first appearing on the panel as a guest in 2012 and making waves with her ‘Scary’ straight-talking approach.

“I’m so excited to be joining The X Factor,” she said. “I’ve always thought honesty is the best policy when being a judge and that’s what I’m going to bring more of this year – whether it’s spotting an incredible singer, giving someone a reality check or debating with Simon over who’s got it wrong!”

Mel B racked up a massive 80 million record sales worldwide with The Spice Girls, including nine UK number ones and five Brit Awards.

Cowell has spoken of his delight that she will be joining the show. “I am thrilled that Mel B has agreed to be a judge on The X Factor,” he said. “I thought she was fantastic as a guest judge a couple of years ago. She is feisty, opinionated and, I believe, will be a great mentor.”

Girls Aloud singer Cole is returning to the panel after leaving in 2010. Dermot O’Leary will be back as host and shoulder to cry on for failed acts.

“Mel certainly doesn’t mince her words,” the presenter said. “With her on the panel, along with Simon, Cheryl and Louis, I’ll have my hands full – we’re going to be in for an exciting year.”

Filming for The X Factor begins next week with an audition tour across four major UK cities – Manchester, London, Newcastle and Edinburgh.