‘I'm so scared of dying – there are days when I just give in'

Linda Nolan on dealing with her incurable cancer diagnosis and the unexpected new project that’s lifted her spirits

- EMILY WHITWAM

When Linda Nolan was diagnosed with breast cancer 15 years ago, she never imagined the unbelievable effect it would have on her life, or that she’d be sitting with us now, discussing how the disease has spread to her liver.

The 61-year-old found fame in the 1970s and 80s with her sisters – Anne, Denise, Maureen, Bernie and Coleen – in the chart-topping group The Nolans, who had hits such as I’m In The Mood For Dancing and Attention To Me.

But life since has been blighted by cancer, with Linda and her family being dealt several devastating blows at the hands of the illness. After 26 years of marriage, in 2007 the disease took the life of her husband Brian Hudson, and six years later that of Bernie. All the while, Linda supports Anne who has been fighting the disease since 2000.

But as soon as we call Linda for a catch-up on how she’s been doing, her strength comes shining through. Although the Celebrity Big Brother star is delighted about Anne recently being given the all-clear, Linda received the news that her cancer had spread. It was a huge blow but, although terrified, Linda has put her all into a new project to distract herself from the pain – she’s launched her own gin, named Hudson’s Gin, after her husband.

Here, Linda reveals the inspiration behind her venture, tells us how she remains upbeat during the dark days and says cancer has made her closer than ever to her sisters…

Hi Linda! How have you been feeling lately?