A tale of two Coles: Ashley and Cheryl step out with and without wedding ring

The pair enjoyed a meal with the Girls Aloud singer's mother at London restaurant Nobu Berkeley.

Yet while Ashley's wedding ring was visible for all to see, Cheryl's band of commitment was noticeably absent.

Look of love: Cheryl and Ashley Cole leave London's Nobu restaurant

Despite this, they looked the epitome of togetherness as they held hands and gazed lovingly into each other's eyes.

The family meal out came after a day of extensive X Factor promotion for Cheryl.

The 25-year-old, the talent show's new judge, has been hailed by Simon Cowell as one of the best people he has ever worked with.

Together: Ashley and Cheryl leave Nobu Berkeley

He said: 'She has natural instincts as to whether people are good or not, and has her own opinions.'

'She is absolutely brilliant,' he added at the launch of the fifth series of the ITV talent show. She is one of the best people I have ever worked with.'

The first episode, which will be shown tomorrow night, is dominated by interviews with Cheryl, while fellow judge Danni Minogue, 36, is seen only in the background.

But the Australian dismissed reports of a rivalry, insisting she is fine with the fact that the Girls Aloud star is the main presence.

'She is the new judge and in the first episode it is her story,' she said.

Without: Cheryl arrives not wearing her wedding ring

Ashley's wedding ring was visible for all to see