Derek Hough is supporting Cheryl Cole through this difficult time according to his Dancing With The Stars colleague, Mark Ballas.

According to heat, Mark reveals that Derek is a great friend who can be relied upon in times of personal crisis.

Mark said: "He's helping Cheryl through a rough patch - he's very caring like that. Derek is really compassionate. He introduced me to my girlfriend.

"He's like that when someone has a tough time. I'd had a brutal break-up a while back, and that got me through it. When things have been hard, he's supported me in an amazing way.

"Like when my uncle committed suicide, it was very hard, but Derek was there for me. That's what he does for people he cares about."

And working with Cheryl has had it's pay offs for Derek too: "It's been great for Derek because he's been able to show off his brilliant skills as a choreographer and work with her and the Black Eyed Peas.

"What Cheryl has accomplished is also awesome - it's great for him to be a part of that."

Do you think Cheryl and Derek are more than just good friends? Tell us on Twitter @areyouentwise

Cheryl and Derek have chemistry...