'Bright shining star' Sarah Harding has died aged 39 after a year-long battle with breast cancer.

Her death was revealed by her mum Marie on the singer's Instagram page this afternoon.

Canterbury MP Rosie Duffield said her thoughts were with all Sarah's friends and family in Kent today.

Sarah rose to fame after auditioning for TV show Popstars: The Rivals in 2002, and formed group Girls Aloud with Nadine Coyle, Cheryl Tweedy, Nicola Roberts, and Kimberley Walsh.

The group achieved 20 consecutive top 10 singles, including four number ones, six studio albums and accumulated five BRIT Award nominations.

Hits included I'll Stand by You, Walk This Way, and The Promise.

Sarah also stared on Celebrity Big Brother and Celebrity Masterchef.

In 2020, Sarah revealed she had been diagnosed with breast cancer, which had spread to other parts of her body.

Today, it was revealed she had passed away.

A message from Sarah's mum, Marie, posted to Instagram reads: "It’s with deep heartbreak that today I’m sharing the news that my beautiful daughter Sarah has sadly passed away.

"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.

"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. Marie x"

Tributes have been paid to the singer, with Miss Duffield tweeting: "Desperately sad to hear news about Sarah Harding. Thoughts especially with her family and friends in Kent today."

Davina McCall, who lives in Kent, said: "So so sad to hear about Sarah … a star from the get go , hugely fun and outgoing yet also somehow fragile , … love to her family and friends."

Fearne Cotton posted: "Oh my gosh I’m so sorry to hear this. I’m sending your family so much love and strength.

"She was always kind and so much fun to be around. I’m very sorry for your loss. Prayers and love to you."

And Alesha Dixon said: "A bright shining star!

"Rest in peace beautiful Sarah. Thank you for your love and kindness angel."

Read more: All the latest news from Kent