Girls Aloud prepare 2012 comeback

Hilary Shaw, the pop band's manager, has confirmed their self-imposed hiatus will come to an end next year when the five-piece – Cheryl Cole, Nadine Coyle, Kimberley Walsh, Nicola Roberts and Sarah Harding – return to the stage to mark their 10th anniversary.

She said: "Everybody wants them to make a comeback and it will be next year. Well, it is their 10th anniversary so there will be something.

"They speak all the time, and that includes Cheryl and Nadine [Coyle] with the other girls. Cheryl is keen to get back with the girls and is planning something which could be a one-off or some gigs."

The 'Biology' hitmakers – who were formed on TV talent show 'Popstars The Rivals' in 2002 - have not performed together since they opened for Coldplay at Wembley Stadium in 2009.

While taking a break from the band, Cheryl has launched a successful solo career – releasing two albums –judged 'The X Factor' and has now been confirmed as a member of the judging panel on the US version of the pop star search show by Simon Cowell.

Earlier this year, Kimberley said it would be tough to get the band together for a reunion because of their hectic schedule.

She said: "It's not down to me. It's all of us - Cheryl's busy and Nadine's not in the country, she's in America, so it's difficult."