[Arneldo]

Shilpa Shetty has vowed to support her former Big Brother nemesis Jade Goody as she battles cancer.

Shetty admitted that she was "really sad" to hear that Jade had been diagnosed with the illness while taking part in the Indian version of Big Brother, which is hosted by the Bollywood actress.

The star has since spoken to Goody about the news and offered her the hand of friendship as she faces an uncertain future.

"I spoke with her. It was a private conversation, but we've exchanged numbers and we've put all our previous troubles in the past so I'd wish only the best for her," Shetty told The Mirror. "It is very emotional and I'm really sad."

Last year, the pair were at the centre of Big Brother's biggest ever controversy when Goody was accused of racially abusing Shilpa as they took part in a celebrity version of the programme. They have now both vowed to put the past behind them.

"When you spend time with somebody, whether they're good, bad or ugly, you know the person," Shilpa explained. "And when you know them you wouldn't wish something bad to happen to them.

"I thought about her family and when I spoke to her she said: 'You know, I'm really worried for my children, I've been through a lot in my life but this is the worst'. It was so sad. You wouldn't wish this on your enemy. And Jade isn't my enemy. I felt very helpless."

Shetty is visiting London this weekend and is expecting to see Jade again. She confirmed: "I hope to go and meet her."

DS

[Shaun]

Aww, that's good to hear.

[Marc]

Shilpa is lovely, and she has always been throughout this whole situation with Celeb BB

[Matt]

The full story is on the Mirror's website:

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