Cheryl’s X Factor protégé Joe McElderry says that her new man Derek Hough, who she’s been reportedly dating for the past four months, will help her recover from her divorce from love-rat Ashley Cole.

He told Closer magazine: “I went to see Cheryl perform in London and she was dancing with Derek. Afterwards backstage, he was so sweet and caring around her. He’s obviously her rock. They’ve become really close – he’s perfect for her.”

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Joe McElderry hit the town for the first time since he bravely told the world he’s gay.

The X Factor winner, who was at London club Kanaloa on Wednesday night, revealed how happy he is to get everything off his chest.

Joe said: “I’ve never felt so free. The support has been overwhelming.”

It certainly has – he’s gained 20,000 more followers on Twitter since he came out two weeks ago.And it’s not just fans who are supporting him – WILL YOUNG and his mentor CHERYL COLE are too.

Will gave him a shout out during his gig last week and he’s been chatting to fellow Geordie Cheryl on the blower.

Joe added: “I didn’t go to Cheryl before I came out as she’s got enough on her plate at the moment, otherwise I would have done. She’s always there for me, always on the end of the phone.

“She’s constantly giving me advice on how to handle fame and the pressures.

“Knowing Will did that too means so much.”

The star was in high spirits all night.

He went on: “I’m very happy. I can’t wait to release my album and I’m excited about the future.”

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