Cheryl Cole has changed her hair in time for the new series of The X Factor.

The singer revealed a sexy new blonde shade as she arrived at a conference for the show in London today.

Cheryl – who usually rocks a much darker tone – ran straighteners through her freshly dyed locks for the occasion.

The 30-year-old was joined by new dad Simon Cowell, 54, who looked cool in aviator shades.

Girls Aloud star Cheryl confirmed her return to the programme last night by sharing a snap of the pair on Instagram.

‘GUESS WHAT!!.. 😱 I’m baaaacccckkkkk!!!! #iMayActuallyRingHisNeck😊 #XFactor2014 👊 #leggooo 🙅,’ she wrote.

SEE PICTURES The Chim love story: Cheryl Cole and Kimberley Walsh‘s friendship in pictures

SEE PICTURES Cheryl Cole‘s tattoo history

SEE PICTURES Cheryl Cole‘s style file

Beth Shearing