CHERYL Cole has annouced that she can’t wait to for the start of the auditions for X Factor – because it means she can play mum to a new group of hopefuls.

Confirming she will definitely be returning to the panel of judges for next month’s auditions, Cole appeared over the moon at being on her third series.

She said: “I love the buzz of being on the opposite side of the desk. And I love the nurturing.”

But she reckons it is her solo career that has been her biggest challenge.

She told a newspaper: “My solo career has given me a new challenge. I’ve got to prove myself again.”

Cheryl, Simon Cowell and Louis Walsh will be holding up the auditions while mum-to-be Dannii Minogue is expected to join them later in the year.

Louis has hinted that Mel B may fill in for Minogue while she is off on maternity leave.