Olly Murs reveals why he split from long-term girlfriend Francesca Thomas

Olly Murs has revealed the reason why he split from his long-term girlfriend Francesca Thomas earlier this year.

The X Factor host shocked fans when he broke up with property manager Francesca two months ago after her dating for three years.

But the couple went their separate ways after deciding together that their relationship was over.

The singer told Daily Mail Weekend: “You get to the point in a relationship where you have to decide what that next commitment stage is. We are both quite career-driven, so...”

When asked if it was because he didn’t want to start a family, he replied: “I do, but I’m not ready for it yet. I want to become a dad when I’m not touring. I want to be there every day for that child. I’m not in that place right now.”

Despite deciding together with Francesca that it was best for them to split, Olly admits he has had some difficult moments since.

And he’s not looking forward to being single over the festive period after being with Francesca for so many years.

He said: “It’s been difficult because we were together for three years, very together.

“Being with her was like being in a bubble – where I’d go to get away from the madness of my world. It was a more normal world. But when that bubble bursts it bursts.”

Olly has recently spoken out to deny rumours he's dating his The X Factor co-host Caroline Flack despite their flirtatious behaviour on-screen.

GALLERY: Olly Murs and Caroline Flack flirting