Cole confirms solo career

Girls Aloud star Cheryl Cole has confirmed she will take time out from the band to record a solo album.

The singer, who is also a judge on TV talent show 'The X Factor', will begin working on her own music this summer.

But a spokesman for the British girl band insists Cole's solo efforts will not spell the end for the group - as they are contracted to make three more albums together, including one in 2010.

The rep also revealed the other members of the girl group - Nadine Coyle, Sarah Harding, Nicola Roberts and Kimberley Walsh - will also be using time away from the band to concentrate on their own projects, from "music to acting to beauty to fashion".

He says: "Cheryl is going to work on some solo music - there is no release date set for this yet as she has not recorded any music. Her A&R people have approached various producers with the view to working with her.

"Until she has recorded music, we can't say who will be working on the record as we can't say at this stage what will make it past the idea stage."

Cole's bandmate Harding is to make her acting debut in forthcoming BBC drama 'Freefall', starring alongside 'Mamma Mia!' actor Dominic Cooper, while Roberts has already embarked on several fashion and beauty ventures including a make-up line for women with pale skin.