Singer quits The Voice amid drug problems

SINGER Beth Morris quit The Voice just hours before the first live show on Saturday because of drug problems.

The former account director at Henley agency Eight Ray Music admitted she had struggled with addiction over the last two years and had sought help but relapsed.

She was also accused of allegedly taking cocaine during rehearsals but this didn’t take place on BBC premises.

In statement, Ms Morris, 26, said: “Two years ago I realised I had a problem with drugs. I was using them to cope with various issues I was going through at the time. I thought they would help me but they were making the situation worse. I made the decision myself to seek treatment and checked into the Priory Clinic. It gave me strength and helped me face the world. It changed me for the better.

“But addiction is tough and I am sorry to say that I have relapsed on a few occasions since I left. When this has happened I have immediately sought help. I regularly attend Narcotics Anonymous meetings to help me get back on track. Being in the Priory gave me the tools to face up to my illness and it definitely helped me on the road to recovery.”

In a statement, the BBC said: “Due to personal reasons, which have only just come to light, The Voice producers, the BBC and Beth agreed that she should withdraw.” Ms Morris, from Maidenhead, won rave reviews from the four judges when she first appeared on the show, performing Tina Turner’s Nutbush City Limits. She was mentored by Paloma Faith, who said: “What a talent. I love you, Beth. Missing you already.”

The singer had made it through to Saturday’s quarter finals by beating jazz singer Steve Devereaux in the second round when they both sang Crazy by CeeLo Green.

She added: “Being on The Voice has been the best experience of my life, the production team and contestants have all been incredible and I have loved performing on the show. Paloma has also been a great support.”