If Kimberley Walsh knew Girls Aloud were about to split she kept it a well-hidden secret, the Shipley dance teacher who unlocked her talent revealed yesterday.

Bombshell news that the princesses of perky pop were parting company came after the final gig of a 12-date UK reunion tour.

An official tweet from the five girls after their Liverpool show said: “We have now come to the end of our incredible time together.”

Created after appearing on reality TV show Popstars: The Rivals in 2002, they achieved a string of 22 consecutive top 11 singles, including four number ones.

And yesterday Deana Morgan of DM Academy, Shipley, told how she had seen Bradford’s Kimberley, 31, only two weeks ago after Girls Aloud’s Sheffield gig.

“This is absolute news to me. I saw Kimberley after the show and she was all smiles, very happy and never said a word about anything,” Mrs Morgan said.

“There will be a lot of disappointed Girls Aloud fans, but it’s going to be very interesting to see what Kimberley does next.

“She’s got such range and depth with her voice, dancing and acting skills as well. I’ve known her since she was very little and performing is something she was destined to do.”

The full Twitter statement from Girls Aloud's read: “Dear Alouders, we just want to say from the bottom of our hearts Thank you!! This tour has been an amazing experience and the perfect chance to say thank you for being on this journey with us through a decade. It has far exceeded any of our dreams and we hope we are forever your inspiration and reminder that dreams really do glitter!! Your love and support will stay with us forever but we have now come to the end of our incredible time together. Love you lots.”