Cheryl has paid tribute to former Girls Aloud bandmate Sarah Harding, who died on Sunday after battling breast cancer.

In an Instagram post, the 38-year-old 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.

A post shared by Cheryl (@cherylofficial)

“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 realise 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”.

The other former members of Girls Aloud – Kimberley Walsh, Nadine Coyle and Nicola Roberts – have also paid tribute to Harding, whose death at 39 was confirmed on Sunday by her mother.

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The band rose to fame following the 2002 edition of ITV’s Popstars: The Rivals, which saw the formation of the supergroup.

When Harding revealed her diagnosis in August 2020, Cheryl posted a tweet with just a single, broken-hearted emoji.

Earlier today, Walsh posted a picture on Instagram of herself and Harding, with the caption: “Beautiful Sarah this hurts so bad. To wake up and know that you are really gone is too much to bear.

“Hearing your infectious chuckle was one of my favourite things in the world.

“Your fire burned so bright and you loved, lived and laughed so hard.

“Sending love and strength to everyone who is grieving today. My heart is broken.”

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