Katy Perry is being comforted by a hunky dancer following her split from Russell Brand.

The 'Firework' singer and the British actor announced the end of their 14 month marriage in December and friends say Malik Le Nost, a backing dancer on Katy's 'California Dreams' world tour, has been helping her cope although the relationship is strictly platonic.

A source told the Sunday Mirror newspaper: "During the tour last year, Katy became extremely close to her band and backing dancers. They all lived in each other's pockets and everyone knew how much Katy was suffering - not least of all Malik.

"Throughout her trip to India, Katy spent a lot of time with him the pair would often stay up late into the night chatting and drinking in the hotel bar. When they were dancing on stage together, it was clear she only had eyes for him.

"In sound check on the day of the last show, the pair started falling about in fits of giggles over a private joke. It was as if they were a couple. Malik shot her cheeky winks across the stage and showered her with hugs. Katy was clearly loving the attention."

Despite the chemistry between Katy and Malik, friends say the pair have not taken their relationship further yet.

The source added: "They insist they are just good friends but their closeness has set tongues wagging in the camp."