Big Brother star Helen Adams

Kylie Minogue. who will perform in Cardiff this year, successfully defended the title she won last year.

The Australian singer, controversially named as one of the great Welsh women of all time during 2002, held off a surprise challenge from Eastenders star Jessie Wallace (a.k.a. Kat Slater), who debuted at number three in the poll.

"Jessie has wowed everyone with her powerful and honest performances in EastEnders," said Heat's deputy editor Julian Linley.

"After such a great year and this poll it looks like Jessie is on her way to becoming the new Martine McCutcheon," he added.

'Big' star

Big Brother star Helen Adams also made a debut in the chart, securing 22nd spot after shooting to prominence during the reality TV show over the summer.

Stereophonics singer Kelly Jones

Adams, from Cwmbran in south Wales, captured the attention of the nation with her infamous relationship with fellow contestant Paul Clarke.

The bubbly blonde was voted into second place in the gameshow, before taking a job as a presenter on GMTV after leaving the Big Brother house.

In the men's chart, Robbie Williams kept his place at number one, closely followed by England football captain David Beckham and actor Brad Pitt.

Meanwhile Kelly Jones, lead singer of the Stereophonics secured 19th place in the poll, ahead of Hugh Grant, George Michael and Robert Downey Junior.