In a heartfelt tribute to the late Sarah Harding, one of Stockport County’s biggest supporters, the beloved singer and member of the iconic girl group Girls Aloud, Stockport is set to honour her legacy with a special plaque and a themed walking tour. This event, scheduled for October 6, aligns with Breast Cancer Awareness Month, marking a poignant moment to celebrate Sarah’s musical achievements and her enduring impact on the local community.
Sarah Harding, who tragically passed away at the age of 39 in September 2021 from breast cancer, first captured the public’s attention in 2002 through ITV’s *Popstars: The Rivals*. Her selection as a member of Girls Aloud launched a career that would see the group become the biggest-selling girl band of the 21st century in the UK. With chart-topping hits like “Love Machine,” “Sound of the Underground,” and “The Promise,” Girls Aloud captivated fans and left an indelible mark on the music industry.
In addition to her musical career, Sarah also made her mark on television, appearing in the long-running soap opera *Coronation Street* and winning the reality show *Celebrity Big Brother*. Her vibrant personality and talent endeared her to fans, making her a cherished figure in the entertainment world.
The upcoming plaque will be situated near a mural of Sarah on High Street, serving as a permanent homage to her contributions to music and culture. The unveiling will kick off a special walking tour led by guide John Barratt, starting from Thread Bar at Stockport Market Place. This unique tour will not only highlight sites associated with Sarah but will also include stops at locations featured in the Stockport Music Map, which celebrates other musical legends such as Jimi Hendrix and Joy Division.
The event is part of a collaborative effort between The Christie Charity and The Stockport Music Story, aimed at raising funds for The Sarah Harding Breast Cancer Appeal. This ticketed walking tour will provide an opportunity for fans and community members to come together, celebrate Sarah’s life, and contribute to a worthy cause. After the walking tour, participants are invited back to Thread Bar for a Girls Aloud-themed social, where attendees are encouraged to wear pink and don their dancing shoes in a festive celebration of Sarah’s legacy.
A spokesperson for The Stockport Music Story expressed excitement about the event, stating, “We’re thrilled to collaborate with The Christie Charity to raise funds for The Sarah Harding Breast Cancer Appeal. This will be a very special afternoon celebrating Sarah’s life, featuring our Plaque Unveiling, Walking Tour, and a Girls Aloud social at Thread Stockport.”
Earlier this year, Girls Aloud fans celebrated the band’s legacy with a UK and Ireland tour that included heartfelt tributes to Sarah, underscoring the profound impact she had on her fans and her bandmates alike.
As the community prepares to honour Sarah Harding, it’s a reminder of the power of music to unite people and the importance of remembering those who have touched our lives. This event promises to be a touching celebration of Sarah’s life and a significant step in raising awareness and funds for breast cancer research. Join the festivities on October 6 to pay tribute to a true star.
