No idea how this came about, but imagine my girls-aloud-loving surprise at the news that Girls Aloud are looking for a sixth member. Seriously girls, if you ain’t broke, which you ain’t – in any sense – what’s this going to fix?

The selection process will be filmed for a new TV talent show, which will air next year. Thousands of women are expected to audition, but just one will be selected to join the girls on stage for a live show. So in fact, Girl 6 probably won’t be a regular addition to the band, after all. Phew.

A source told the Sunday Mirror: “The girls have never forgotten that reality TV gave them their first break. Now they want to give someone else the chance.

“The winner will get to perform with the group on stage during a one-off concert but the girls hope they’ll be able to discover a hidden talent who could join the band as a fully paid-up member. It makes sense for them to look for someone who can stand in if one of them can’t make a show.”

The show will be screened next year, with all five girls on the judging panel.