Kimberley Walsh has shared an emotional post in tribute to the first anniversary of Sarah Harding's death.
Sarah, who was one of five former members of Girls Aloud alongside Kimberley, tragically passed away in September 2021 following a battle with breast cancer.
Sharing a picture of her late bandmate and friend, the 40-year-old singer wrote: "Sarah passed away a year ago.
Advert
"I can still hardly believe it to be honest but it feels more real than ever today.
"Thinking of her always and of everyone who loved and miss her too."
Hundreds of commenters added to the post with messages of support and condolences, with one writing: "Sending love to you and Sarah’s loved ones."
Advert
Another said: "Feels like I’ve equally expecting this day, and also like it’s crept up on us all. Feeling for you girls today and Sarah's family. Much love."
A third added: "She will forever be in our hearts. Sending so much love to you and the other girls."
Sarah's death was announced on 5 September last year by her mum Marie, who wrote on Instagram: “It’s with deep heartbreak that today I’m sharing the news that my beautiful daughter Sarah has sadly passed away.
Advert
"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."
Marie continued: "I’d like to thank everyone for their kind support over the past year. 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."
Earlier this year, Kimberley joined her bandmates, Cheryl, Nadine Coyle, and Nicola Roberts for a charity run in Sarah's name.
Advert
They took part in the 5k Race for Life at Hyde Park to celebrate Sarah's life and raise money for breast cancer research.
Speaking at the event in July, Cheryl said: "To be honest, I’ve never experienced or anticipated this grief.
"You know, I’ve lost grandparents when I was younger and I lost a friend when I was younger but nothing like this, the feeling of shock and disbelief and it still lingers now to be honest.
Advert
"I still can’t quite believe it’s real."
For advice, help or support, visit Breast Cancer Now.
If you have experienced a bereavement and would like to speak with someone in confidence contact Cruse Bereavement Care via their national helpline on 0808 808 1677.
Daisy Phillipson