Pop starlet Diana Vickers has left her big-name record label to pursue ‘new creative challenges.’

The 19-year-old from Huncoat announced on her blog that she left Sony/RCA – but said her departure was ‘purely based on a creative level’.

Diana signed with the record giant in 2009 after finishing fourth on TV talent show X Factor in 2008.

Her first album, Songs From The Tainted Cherry Tree, reached number one on the charts as did her first single Once.

However her second and third singles failed to gain the same success, charting 36 and 13 respectively.

It is thought Diana wants to develop a more rocky sound in her music.

In her Tumblr blog she said: "I will always be really thankful for the time we’ve spent together and the support they’ve given me.

"But, I’ve grown up a lot since the first album and whilst the past couple years have been a lot of fun and a great success, I’m now ready to take a wander down a different, very exciting path.

"In order to grow, this change has to be made."

She also said her second album is coming along very well and she is eager to share it with fans.