Stockport’s Underbank has become the canvas for a heartfelt tribute to a local icon, Sarah Harding. This poignant street art, part of the town’s expanding mural trail, immortalises the Girls Aloud star in an area close to her roots.
The Artwork
Situated at 11 High Street, the mural is a celebration of Sarah’s life and her contributions to the music industry. Rendered beautifully by artist Deggy and funded by Rediscovering the Underbanks and Totally Stockport, the mural not only symbolises remembrance but also serves as a beacon of inspiration.
Sarah Harding grew up in Stockport, attending Hazel Grove High School before catapulting to worldwide fame with Girls Aloud. Her brave fight against breast cancer – a battle she tragically lost in September 2021 at just 39 – highlights the critical importance of early detection, a cause she passionately advocated for during her treatment at The Christie.
The Response
Cllr Mark Hunter, Leader of Stockport Council, lauded the mural as a “beacon of hope and awareness”. He expressed his hope that this vibrant testament to Sarah’s legacy would encourage young women to be proactive about their health and raise awareness about The Christie’s invaluable work.
Shaun Freeman-Jones, Totally Stockport BID Manager, remarked on the privilege of shining a light on a beloved local icon while promoting an essential cause. He pointed out that the mural is part of a broader street art project aimed at reviving the town centre.
Louise Hadley, Chief Executive of The Christie Charity, recalled Sarah’s eagerness for more research into why young women with no familial history of the disease were being diagnosed with breast cancer. She praised the mural as an inventive way to draw attention to this crucial issue and raise funds for the Sarah Harding Breast Cancer Appeal.
A Growing Trail of Street Art
This mural is part of the Rediscovering the Underbanks initiative, a Townscape Heritage project funded by The National Lottery Heritage Fund. Launched in 2021, the initiative aims to breathe new life into buildings and reconnect people with the area’s unique heritage.
The addition of the Sarah Harding mural to Stockport’s burgeoning street art trail cements the town’s dedication to honouring its local heroes, enriching its cultural tapestry, and drawing attention to important causes.
Stephen F is the publisher of this website, he is a long term resident of Stockport. Over the years he has explored every area within Stockport from the Merseyway Shopping Centre to the Etherow Country Park trails.
He can often be found on a lazy Saturday morning frequenting one of Stockport's many coffee shops sipping his favourite latte.
One of his big passions is to go for long country walks with his pet golden retriever Lottie.
One thing is certain he knows Stockport!