Cheryl Cole Cheryl Cole has been voted the world's sexiest woman. The Girls Aloud star - who topped the poll conducted by FHM magazine - knocked 2008 winner Megan Fox off the top spot and into second place in this year's vote.

The British singer - who last year came seventh in the annual poll - beat a host of beauties, including actress Jessica Alba, who came third, and pop singer Britney Spears to take the title.

'Womanizer' singer Britney - who is currently performing on her comeback tour - took fourth place after she only reached number 31 in 2008. Brit's fans started an online campaign to ensure her she would not chart outside the top 10 again.

FHM editor Chris Bell said: "It's been a revolutionary year in FHM's 100 Sexiest Women In The World poll - as old favourites such as Jennifer Lopez and Cameron Diaz are rejected in favour of a new wave of female talent."

This is the first time in three years a British star has come first in the poll, which has been taken by almost 10 million readers of the men's magazine.

Check out FHM's 10 sexiest women...