Rylan Clarke-Neal and Matt Edmondson pay tribute as Xtra Factor is AXED

The X Factor aftershow Xtra Factor will not be returning to our screens in 2017.

Former hosts Rylan Clarke-Neal and Matt Edmonson both took to social media to pay tribute to the show after news broke that it would be taken off air and replaced with a digital offering this year.

'I wanted to write a quick something about my time on Xtra Factor, and the news it's not coming back this year...' Matt wrote to his 200,000 Twitter followers.

'I had an absolute blast working for the show - it's honestly the most fun I've ever had at work, and it's thanks to the best production team in the world.'

'Xtra had been on the decline for a few years, but we pulled out all the stops to make a show I am massively proud of.'

'The feedback was amazing, and as a fan of The X Factor, it was a joy to be involved in some small way. I loved working with Rylan and Roman, and I've no doubt we'll get to do something fun together in the future.

'There aren't many shows on telly that are live and silly, but I'm so glad I got to sink my teeth into this one.'

He went on to thank 2016's cast of The X Factor judges, adding: 'Thanks to ITV for taking a chance on the oddest looking presenting combination of all time... I feel very lucky to have done my dream job.' Rylan posted a similar message to his Instagram account, adding that his role as presenter had 'always been a one year gig'.

'After an amazing series I just want to say what an honour it was to finally host The Xtra Factor alongside the lovely Matt and naughty scamp Roman. It was always a one year gig (LOLS) and a full 360 for me and I'm grateful that I had the opportunity,' he said.

'I propose a wake alongsie Matt, Roman, Rochelle, Melvin, Sarah, MattR, Caroline, Olly, Konnie, Fearne, Holly & Ben where we can all wear black and mourn as one.'

'God bless Xtra and all who sailed her. Sleep well girl x'

Fans in the comments hit out at the decision that Xtra Factor would be coming to an end, with one saying: 'Will never watch x factor again. I only watched it last year as I had you to look forward to on xtra factor afterwards. You were too good for it Rylan.'

However, Richard Holloway, managing director of Thames TV - who make The X Factor - explained in a statement: 'In the past year there has been an increase in digital engagement and online audiences around The X Factor.'

'In light of this, ITV's strategy to focus their efforts on digital means The Xtra Factor on linear television has come to its natural end.'

'We've had great fun making the show and would like to thank Rylan, Matt and Roman (Kemp) for their fantastic and entertaining work on the last series.'

'We now look forward to focusing on making great content for our social platforms in support of the main show.'