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By Anneke Hak

She’s recently been hailed as a national treasure and is often referred to as the Angel of the North, but Cheryl Cole hasn’t always been the polished star she is today. Born in 1983, here she is with Girls Aloud at 20 years-old, having won her place in the band through the reality TV show Popstars: The Rivals in 2002. The short bob, obvious fake tan and caramel highlights are a far cry from the effortlessly gorgeous X Factor judge we see today.

Take a look at our X Factor special