Nicola RobertsNicola Roberts has revealed her mum didn’t want her to join Girls Aloud after she won her place in the group on 2002’s Popstars: The Rivals.

Nicola was just 16 when she competed on the talent show and was recalled into the final ten when fellow contestant Nicola Ward dropped out.

But she explained recently that while her mum was happy for her to take part in the show, she was less keen about Nicola joining the band full time: “She was worried about me being away from home, and I can see now why she was wary.

“But you have to take your chance when you get it.

“I’m happier now than I’ve ever been - I feel constantly lifted.

“Girls Aloud have gone on this great journey together and we are a family unit now.”