Actress Jessica Biel splits from Justin Timberlake

Jessica Biel and Justin Timberlake have ended their relationship, it has been announced.

In a statement to Access Hollywood, the pair confirmed that they are no longer together but remain friends.

"Addressing the media speculation regarding Jessica Biel and Justin Timberlake's relationship, we are confirming that they mutually have decided to part ways. The two remain friends and continue to hold the highest level of love and respect for each other."

The Social Network star began dating A-Team actress Biel in 2007 after previous relationships with Cameron Diaz and singer Britney Spears.

Just last year, Biel described her relationship with 30-year-old Justin as "the most precious thing" in her life.

Speaking to Vogue, she said: "I care about it so much that I don't care about what anyone says or thinks. I have just not addressed it in any real way, and I'm not going to. It's mine. And I really like that about it."

According to the Daily Mail, speculation that the pair would split has been rife since Timberlake attended the Academy Awards with his mother instead of Biel earlier this month.