Cheryl's secret heartache revealed by Girls Aloud bandmate Nicola Roberts

Nicola Roberts has revealed Cheryl Tweedy's secret heartache as Girls Aloud prepared to hit the road for their recent reunion tour in memory of their bandmate, Sarah Harding

Nicola Roberts has spoken out on Cheryl Tweedy's secret heartache.

Earlier this year, the girls reunited with their Girls Aloud bandmates Nadine Coyle and Kimberley Walsh to celebrate the band's chart-mauling career over the past two decades. But their tour was also filled with sadness as they honoured their late bandmate Sarah Harding.

The Threads singer tragically died aged 39 – after confirming her initial diagnosis of breast cancer had advanced to various parts of her body. Despite her diagnosis, Sarah continued to put on a fight and updated fans on her condition. Although she was initially responding well to treatment, she sadly died on September 5, 2021, surrounded by her family.

During her treatment, Cheryl, Nicola, Kimberely and Nadine put their differences aside and joined forces to be alongside Sarah as she courageously fought the cruel disease. Sarah had made it clear to her bandmates, who found fame in 2002 on Popstars: The Rivals, that she wanted the band to perform again in her honour, as well as to raise awareness of The Sarah Harding Breast Cancer Appeal.

Now, Nicola, 39, has spoken on how Cheryl's heartache was echoed as she penned an emotional tribute to Sarah which was heard before they performed their 2012 track, Something New. As the band geared up to belt the iconic hit out, a pre-recorded audio clip from Nicola was played across the arenas.

The Runcorn-born singer-songwriter said: "Tonight it is our duty and honour to take you on a magical journey down memory lane. Where you can experience joy, fun, unity, freedom, nostalgia and most importantly, the celebration of our Sarah. A woman so very beautiful, talented, outrageous and courageous.

"Do not hold back, we want to see your mouths singing, your arms waving, your hips shaking and your hearts open. Leave all your worries, troubles and differences at the door because tonight, you are with us." The emotional moment saw fans left in tears as the band honoured Sarah.

Fans have since taken to X, formerly known as Twitter to discuss the moment, admitting it gave them "butterflies, chills and heart palpitations." Responding, Nicola said: "Chez wrote it for us." But it appears that fans didn't expect this as they took to the comments to respond to Nicola.

"An actual angel she is. Very blessed to have her and you girls in our lives. You're all the strength we need," said one. A second added: "I will never ever forget the emotions of my first tour show, especially hearing this little intro for the first time!! forever grateful for the memories and magic you gave us this tour." Meanwhile, a third replied: "I love how involved in every little detail you girls were."

In November of 2023, the group announced The Girls Aloud Show – a celebration of Sarah and their music. Initially, the chart-mauling group announced 15 dates including performances in cities such as London, Dublin, Newcastle and their final concert in Liverpool – where the girls last performed before their 2013 split.

Due to the huge demand, they added an extra eight dates and then another date in London, performing 30 shows to fans. Now, the group have been awarded a top record. Their management team announced on Instagram on Monday that The Girls Aloud Show had become the Biggest UK and Ireland Arena Tour of The Year.

Sarah's memory was kept very much alive on their tour, The Girls Aloud Show, with her iconic "Take a walk on the wild side of life," from Something New being played across the arenas. As the band wrapped up their performance, a huge screen appeared on stage during The Promise, allowing Sarah to shine once again as she belted out: "So here I am, a walking primrose, wondering when I'm gonna see you again," as fans and the band cheered for the late star. Moments before the four girls walked off stage, a photograph of Sarah appeared behind them alongside the text: "In loving memory of Sarah Nicole Harding. 17.11.81 05.09.2021."

If you have been affected by this story, advice and support can be found at Breast Cancer Support. The Macmillan Support Line offers confidential support to people living with cancer and their loved ones. If you need to talk, call us on 0808 808 0000.

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