Britney Spears has lost her fight to have her father Jamie Spears removed as the conservator of her estate.

The 38-year-old singer has been under the guardianship of Jamie since 2008 amid her battles with mental health problems.

During that time Jamie has been responsible for her financial affairs and some aspects of her personal life, including her visitors and interaction with medical professionals.

Speaking during the court hearing in Los Angeles, Britney's lawyer Sam Ingham said: "My client has informed me that she is afraid of her father.

"She also stated that she will not perform as long as her father is in charge of her career. We are really at a crossroads."

A lawyer for Jamie argued that he has a sound record in charge of her affairs, boosting her worth to an estimated $60 million (£45 million) over the last 12 years.

The judge rejected the attempt to have Jamie removed as Britney's guardian but added that fresh requests along the same lines will be considered in future.