Following Lisa Armstrong’s Twitter tirade about the reports of her estranged husband’s new relationship, Loose Women panelist Coleen Nolan, 53, hit out at Anne-Marie as she spoke in defence of Lisa.

Not holding back, she told The Mirror: “This is absolutely a violation of the girl code.

“I imagine Lisa is feeling devastated and terribly angry,” she added.

Coleen went on to explain how one of her famous sisters once dated an ex of hers, admitting: “It was really upsetting.

“Your friend should be there as a shoulder to cry on when a relationship ends — not to date your ex,” she blasted.

“You have to mourn not only your relationship but your friendship,” Coleen, who recently split from her husband Ray, continued.

“In Lisa’s case, Ant isn’t even her ex-husband yet.”

She also warned: “They say you can’t help who you fall for. Maybe sometimes you should.”

Express.co.uk has contacted a representative for Anne-Marie asking for comment.

Yesterday, The Sun reported 42-year-old Saturday Night Takeaway favourite Ant had struck up a romance with his personal assistant, 42, after confirming his split from Lisa, 41, earlier this year.

A source told the publication: “Anne-Marie’s put him back together again.

“Everyone’s thrilled he’s found someone to love.

“They have been living in each other’s pockets, day in, day out,” they added.

“Knowing someone is there for him as brought him back from the brink — she’s put him back together again.”

The source added: “It’s very early days, but everyone is hoping he can put thew worst year of his life behind him and find happiness again. Both of them deserve it.”

When asked, Ant’s representative told Express.co.uk: “No comment on Ant’s private life.”

Express.co.uk has contacted the ITV star’s management company, who Anne-Marie works for, asking for comment on her behalf but she has yet to speak out about the rumoured relationship.

After the reports emerged yesterday, Lisa took to Twitter to address them in view of her 124,000 followers.

Replying to Nicola McLean, who said she “really felt for” Lisa, the star said: “Thanks babe and to think she was MY friend.”

A now deleted message to Lisa also read: “So much for the girl code. Keep that gorgeous dignified chin held high. Wishing you nothing but happiness in the future.”

“Exactly!” Lisa said, retweeting the post.