Perrie Edwards supports 'good friend' Cheryl Fernandez-Versini over Liam Payne romance

Cheryl Fernandez-Versini and Liam Payne sent shockwaves among fans when they revealed they are in the throes of a blossoming new romance. Little Mix star Perrie Edwards has said she is happy for her good friend, Cheryl Fernandez-Versini.

Perrie, who was previously engaged to Payne's bandmate Zayn Malik, described the X Factor judge as "the nicest person in the world."

Speaking to the Mirror, the Black Magic singer said: "Cheryl is a good friend of mine. She wants to do whatever makes her happy. I'm happy for her, whatever makes her happy I think is fine."

In February, Perrie revealed that Cheryl had supported her during her difficult break-up from Zayn after four years together. She said: "Cheryl is incredible. She has been a very good friend to me, particularly recently. She is the nicest person in the world. She knows what we've gone through and has great advice."

Romance blossomed between Liam and Cheryl in December, as the 32-year-old was coming to terms with the breakdown of her marriage to French businessman Jean Bernard Versini Fernandez.

Cheryl faced a backlash from One Direction fans after news of the relationship with Liam, who is ten years her junior, became public. However, the loved-up couple have defied their detractors with teasing messages about their relationship and making public declarations of love on social media.

Posting an image of her on 8 March, the 22-year-old singer wrote: "Happy #internationalwomensday to my favourite woman in the world hope I make you as happy as u make me X."

In contrast, Perrie has remained single after her split from Zayn Malik who has moved on and is in a high-profile relationship with supermodel Gigi Hadid.