Cheryl Tweedy has offered her condolences following the tragic death of her former bandmate, Sarah Harding.
Sarah died peacefully on September 5 following a battle with breast cancer, fighting the disease until the end.
The late singer announced her diagnosis in August 2020, confirming that while she had originally been diagnosed with breast cancer, it had spread to her spine and brain.
Announcing her heartbreaking death, Sarah’s mum, Marie Hardman, took to the late singers Instagram page, describing her daughter as “a bright shining star”.
Now, her former bandmate, Cheryl, who she starred in Girls Aloud with has penned an emotional tribute to her friend.
Taking to Instagram, the Let You songstress, 38, said: “Although we knew this day would arrive I am somehow still feeling at a loss for words that our stunning, unique, crazy, quirky, kind and soft hearted girl has departed.
“As I try to navigate my way through these painfully strange and horribly unfamiliar waves of disbelief & finality I am experiencing, I wanted to extend my condolences to all of our GA fans.
She continued: “We were like an extended family for so long and we know so many of you by name. I wanted to make sure you knew just how much your love and continued support meant to Sarah through her most vulnerable times.
“She was so grateful and you really lifted her spirits when she needed you most. I also realize so many will be deeply affected by the circumstances of Sarah’s passing… I am sending you all so much love. I love you Sarah… farewell.
“Sarah Nicole Harding forever in our hearts.”
Fans were quick to leave their condolences to Cheryl and to offer her support after the tragic loss of Sarah, and also shared some of their favourite memories under the post.
The two found fame in 2002 after securing a spot in the girl band while appearing ITV’s Popstars: The Rivals, before going on to become the biggest girl group in British history.
Alongside Nadine Coyle, Kimberley Walsh and Nicola Roberts, they landed 21 top ten singles, four UK number one singles and sell-out tours across the nation.
Following their formation and close bond on-stage, fans often referred to the pair as “Saryl” – merging their names together.
While they may not have always been in contact following their decision to disband in 2013, Cheryl and Sarah kept in touch on occasions and also delighted fans when they reunited at work events.
Taking to Instagram in November 2014, Sarah left fans speechless as she shared a snap with Cheryl backstage at The X Factor, offering her support to Tweedy, who was on the show as a judge.
Nadine was the first member of Girls Aloud to post a tribute following the death of Sarah, sharing with her Instagram followers: “I am absolutely devastated!! I can’t think of words that could possibly express how I feel about this girl & what she means to me!!
“I know so many of you will be feeling this way. For now, I’m sending so much love to you!!!”
Announcing the news of Sarah’s passing, Marie penned: “It’s with deep heartbreak that today I’m sharing the news that my beautiful daughter Sarah has sadly passed away. Many of you will know of Sarah’s battle with cancer and that she fought so strongly from her diagnosis until her last day.
“She slipped away peacefully this morning. I’d like to thank everyone for their kind support over the past year.”
She went on to say: “It meant the world to Sarah and it gave her great strength and comfort to know she was loved.
“I know she won’t want to be remembered for her fight against this terrible disease – she was a bright shining star and I hope that’s how she can be remembered instead.”
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Source: Celebrities - dailystar.co.uk