Time certainly flies! Fifteen years ago today, Girls Aloud formed following their success on Pop Stars: The Rivals, and three of the five members were together to mark the special occasion. Taking to Instagram, Cheryl posted a photo of her and 'best friends' Nicola Roberts and Kimberly Walsh, who were watching clips of their time in one of the most successful girl bands of the time. Notably missing were Sarah Harding and Nadine Coyle – although Cheryl tagged them in the tribute post.
Cheryl wrote a heartfelt message besides the photo – which was also shared on Nicola and Kimberly's own social media pages. She said: "Sitting here drinking coffee with these two and watching babies 15 years later !!! Crazy how time flies...15 years ago today some of the best, craziest years of my life were just beginning. I had no idea what a life journey I was starting out on."
Cheryl paid tribute to two of her three Girls Aloud members
Continuing, the mother-of-one reminisced about some of the "most amazing times," writing: "We had some of the most amazing times of our lives and made some incredible pop moments to put the cherry on top.." The X Factor judge paid a special tribute to Nicola and Kimberly, adding: "In the end I left with these two amazing, inspiring gorgeous souls and the best friends anyone could ever ask for. You blessed me and I will never be able to thank you enough for the support, love and loyalty you brought to our group. I am so proud of what we achieved together. Love you all @lilcola@kimberleywalshofficial @nadinecoyle@sarahnicoleharding Thank you."
Girls Aloud won Pop Stars: The Rivals back in 2002
Girls Aloud shot to fame in 2002 after beating One True Voice on the popular ITV talent show – which was hosted by Davina McCall. The girls were chosen out of ten female finalists by the show's judges – Pete Waterman, Louis Walsh and Geri Halliwell. The band went on to produce seven albums, countless number one hits and a BRIT Award for Best Single in 2009 for their hit song The Promise, before going their separate ways in 2013.