WHILE the UK press has been beside itself following weekend reports that Cheryl Cole is about to follow Kate Moss into the design studio, a spokesperson for Topshop has confirmed to VOGUE.COM that the rumours are just that - rumours.

Following Cole's sterling show on this year's X Factor she has quickly become the nation's style darling, but dreams of her turning designer under the tutelage of high street mogul Sir Philip Green are apparently nothing more than wishful thinking.

"There is no truth in the rumours," insists a Topshop representative. "However, Topshop continues to supporting new and up and coming British designers with the New Gen sponsorship."

According to the News of the World, a recent meeting between Cole and Moss inevitably led to talk of fashion, with the supermodel promising to petition Green on the singer's behalf.

"Cheryl and Kate instantly hit it off. They were both gushing about each other all night," a source told the paper. "When Cheryl said she wanted to get into high street fashion, Kate got very, very animated. It's very likely to happen next year."

While Cole may not be on the store's wish list Moss, on the other hand, has her stiletto-ed feet more firmly than ever under the Topshop table; yesterday, it was confirmed that her design contract with the brand has been extended for a further three years.