Brendyn is Rachel's 'shoulder to lean on'

Following a difficult time, sources tell new that S Club 7’s Rachel Stevens is being supported by former Dancing On Ice partner Brendyn Hatfield

- Lesley Jones

It’s been an emotional few weeks for Rachel Stevens, who continues to mourn the tragic loss of her S Club 7 bandmate, Paul Cattermole, who died last month aged just 46.

But according to a source, Rachel, 45, who split from her husband Alex Bourne, 45, last summer, is being supported more than ever by her former Dancing On Ice partner Brendyn Hatfield.

Last week, it was reported that Brendyn, 37, who was paired with Rachel on last year’s show, has grown close to the singer away from the ice.

“What initially started as a close friendship between them has blossomed,” said our source. “Rachel has suffered a difficult time of late, but Brendyn has been a shoulder for her to lean on.”