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A tribute to the legacy of Sarah Harding, member of the chart-topping band Girls Aloud, is the latest poignant addition to Stockport’s street art trail.

 As part of Phase 2 of the trail, a mural celebrating the life and achievements of Sarah can now be found at 11 High Street in the town’s Underbank area.

Funded by Rediscovering the Underbanks and Totally Stockport, the mural is testament to the enduring impact of Sarah Harding, brought to life by artist Deggy, and stands as a symbol of remembrance and inspiration.

Sarah spent her formative years in Stockport where she was a pupil at Hazel Grove High School and went on to achieve worldwide success with Girls Aloud. Her courageous battle with breast cancer, during which she sought treatment at The Christie, serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of early detection which was something Sarah was passionate about. Sarah lost her battle with breast cancer in September 2021, aged 39.

Cllr Mark Hunter, Leader of Stockport Council, said: “This latest mural is a beacon of hope and awareness, whilst also remembering the life of Sarah Harding. I hope it encourages young women to be vigilant about their health, as well as drawing attention to the invaluable work of The Christie. It’s a wonderful addition to the Underbank area and I’m pleased that we are able to help raise awareness.”  

Totally Stockport BID Manager Shaun Freeman-Jones said: “We take great privilege in being able to shine a light on a much-loved local icon whilst also raising awareness for an important cause. This piece is part of a wider street art project in the town centre.”

Louise Hadley, Chief Executive of The Christie Charity, said: “When Sarah was being treated at The Christie she was very keen for more research to be done to find out why young women are being diagnosed despite no other family members having been affected by the disease. This mural is a wonderful and creative way of drawing attention to such an important cause and hopefully raising much needed funds for the Sarah Harding Breast Cancer Appeal.”

The street art project was first revealed to residents in 2021 and forms part of Rediscovering the Underbanks initiative, an exciting Townscape Heritage project, funded by The National Lottery Heritage Fund. It aims to bring buildings back into life and reconnect people with the area by raising awareness of its unique heritage.

This latest commission is part of a series of a further four new artworks in the area, with the others expected to be completed in the summer.