Derek Hough is said to be so loved up with Cheryl Cole, that he is subjecting his friends to endless sessions of looking at snaps of her.

Hough is even more besotted since he and the X Factor judge shared a romantic holiday in South Africa for New Years and friends say that since returning to LA, the professional dancer has been like a ‘lovesick puppy’ pining for his ‘soulmate.’

A source told The Sun:

“Derek has been like a lovesick puppy since arriving back in LA. He’s been talking non-stop about their South African holiday and says he’s convinced she’s ‘the one’.

“He’s showing everyone his pictures, which look amazing. He did an entire photoshoot with Cheryl in their hotel room. She did loads of beautiful poses and looks incredible, even without a scrap of make-up.”

Derek is said to be sure now that he is meant to be with Cheryl and the fabulous time and intimate moments they shared on their holiday, proved to him that they are ready to share a home when Cole moves to LA later this year.

A source said: “He is convinced they are soulmates and said this holiday made him realise more than ever how well suited they are. He said they’d sit up for hours, chatting until 2 or 3am.

“They spoke a lot about the future and what they both want. He said he feels happier than he ever has in his life, which is a big deal for Derek as he had a pretty tough time growing up.”

“Derek’s having the last laugh though. He’s spending the next few weeks putting the final touches to the Hollywood apartment he’s bought to share with Chezza when she moves Stateside.

“She’s told him what she wants to put her stamp on it and he’s obeying her orders.”