After her hectic year, Cheryl Cole is planning some down time and later this month she will embark on a sailing holiday with close ‘friend’ Derek Hough.

After she finishes her stint as support act for the Black Eyed Peas and before she starts judging on The X Factor, Cheryl will fly to LA to begin work on her new album. While there, Derek has organised a holiday for the singer and he plans to sail with her to the idyllic island of Catalina.

A source told The Sun: “Cheryl had mentioned to Derek in passing recently that she likes the idea of sailing.

“She said she’d never been on a proper sailing holiday, so Derek decided to organise one for her.”

The source added: “Obviously Cheryl’s feet haven’t touched the ground much recently. She’s been all over Europe on tour and is looking for a break.

“She’s really excited about going sailing with Derek.”

Cheryl started divorce proceedings against her husband Ashley Cole last week. Just days after the papers were lodged in the High Cout, Derek flew in from LA to join Cheryl on stage and has been staying in her £6 million mansion ever since.