Cheryl Cole revealed that she has a “girl crush” on Rihanna as she presented the singer with the Best International Female prize at the BRIT Awards.

The Girls Aloud star and X Factor judge offered high praise for Rihanna, who flew in from America especially for the ceremony.

The two singers hugged on stage, before Rihanna told the crowd: "This is so exciting.This means a lot. It doesn't get much better than the BRITs. Wow." In message on Twitter, Rihanna said: "Can Cheryl Cole NOT be so yummy??? Just ONCE!!!"

The singer also performed a three-song medley of her hits 'The Only Girl (In The World)', 'What's My Name' and 'S&M' at the event.

Cole, who was an unexpected guest, missed out on winning any awards in the categories she was nominated in.

(by Jason Gregory)