January 17, 2009 11:14

Ex-Sugababes singer quits 'Celebrity Big Brother'

Mutya Buena walks out on reality show

Former Sugababes singer Mutya Buena has walked out of the 'Celebrity Big Brother' house - despite avoiding eviction.

The mother-of-one, 23, departed last night (January 16) after saying she did not want to spend another day away from her three-year-old daughter Tahila-Maya.

The star had been nominated for eviction, along with actress Tina Malone, with the latter voted out by viewers after receiving 39% of the vote.

When the eviction of Malone was announced, Buena said: "No way am I staying a day longer, I've already told them I don't care what I lose.

"If they want to fight me they can. I'm not unpacking my suitcase and that's it. I'm going."

Afterwards the singer went to the Diary Room and said she had been thinking about leaving for several days.

She said: "Thank you for the experience and making me realise what is important."

Founder member Buena quit Sugababes in 2005 to embark on a solo career, and has also worked with George Michael and Groove Armada since her departure from the girl group.

'Austin Powers' actor Verne Troyer is favourite with the bookmakers to win this year's 'Celebrity Big Brother'.