Strictly returns to BBC One tonight, airing at the same time as X Factor over on ITV, but Cheryl, 31, said the dancing show doesn't make dreams come true.

Speaking to a UK newspaper, Cheryl said: "I'd always choose The X Factor as we are giving people an opportunity they could never have.

"As much as Strictly in an entertainment show, it's celebrities dancing and at the end of it someone gets a glitter ball.

"At the end of The X Factor auditions someone gets the chance of a lifetime."

Cheryl admitted boss Simon Cowell, 54, is not happy about the clash, adding: "He as told me 'the fight is on'."

However, the BBC hit back at Cheryl's comments – reminding everyone that Cheryl was all for Strictly back in 2012 when her best friend and former band mate Kimberley Walsh took part.

A source told the Mirror: "It's funny now she's back on X Factor she's slagging Strictly off. When Kim was on she loved it. It's not the most intelligent thing to say."

Meanwhile Cheryl yesterday paid tribute to Simone Battle, the girl band singer who was tragically found dead on Friday morning.

25-year-old Simone auditioned for The X Factor USA in 2011, during Cheryl's brief stint as a judge over there, before finding fame with GRL – the girl band put together by Pussycat Dolls creator Robin Antin.

Cheryl tweeted: "Such tragically sad news to hear of the passing of Simone battle.. My thoughts and prayers are with her loved ones #RIPSimone."

GRL's debut single Ugly Heart is expected to chart in the Top 5 later today.