Cowell 'introduces Cole as Cheryl Tweedy'

Simon Cowell has sparked speculation that Cheryl Cole has ditched her married name after introducing her as Cheryl Tweedy at the X Factor auditions.

According to The Mirror, the music mogul surprised audience members at London's Excel Centre on Tuesday night by appearing to confirm that Cheryl is now using her maiden name.

Cowell reportedly said: "Who would like to hear from Cheryl... Tweedy? It is, now, isn't it?"

It is thought that the crowd of fans were excited by Cowell's comment and immediately rose to their feet to applaud Cheryl.

One onlooker, 21-year-old Kate Gibbs, explained: "The support for her was immense. When Simon announced her as Cheryl Tweedy the whole place went up. Cheryl was beaming. It was as if a new chapter in her life had just started and she looked happier than ever."

Cheryl filed for divorce from husband Ashley last month. The pair separated in February following claims that Ashley had been repeatedly unfaithful.