Cyrus changes name from Destiny Hope

Miley Cyrus has been granted permission to change her name.

The 15-year-old's parents called her Destiny Hope, but childhood nickname Smiley quickly morphed into Miley.

According to TMZ, a judge approved a request by parents Billy Ray and Tish to make the name official.

Meanwhile, Britney Spears has become the latest celebrity to support Cyrus following the controversy surrounding her recent Vanity Fair photoshoot.

A source said: "Britney is all too aware of the pressures of being famous so young and of having to maintain the image of a role model.

"She has offered Miley her support and advice should she need it.”