Secret ... Russell Brand and Geri Halliwell - The Sun

GERI Halliwell even kept her fling with Russell Brand secret from her bandmates.

Ginger Spice fell for the legendary swordsman while rehearsing for the Spice Girls gig at the Olympics closing ceremony.

Although the band witnessed the pair's chemistry in full flow Mel C admitted she had absolutely no idea they were about to get it on.

Mel said: "I don't know what's going on. I know they get on really well.

"I'll have to quiz her on that one, the cheeky little minx!"

Geri's probably been otherwise engaged to pick up the phone.

Those intense yoga sessions that both she and Russell love must be keeping her really busy.

The funnyman went to Geri's north London gaff for a romantic night in on Wednesday evening, arriving with a bag of highbrow DVDs and books.

Playwright Alan Bennett's critically acclaimed BBC series Talking Heads was among his haul.

Geri must have presented him with a copy of Spice World: The Movie in return.

After the Spice Girls' final hurrah at London 2012, Mel C was quick to pick out the next girlband to fill their platform boots.

Sporty Spice told Magic FM: "There have been a few girl bands that have been and gone over the years.

"But I think young strong female role models are what are missing.

"It's tough for girls and young women and I'd like to see more positive role models.

"I think Little Mix have the potential to do this."

Last year's X Factor winners — who are heading for No1 on Sunday with their single Wings — will be chuffed with that.