Susanna Reid was on the verge of tears as she read Kate Garraway’s tribute to Derek Draper.

Susanna Reid was on the verge of tears as she read Kate Garraway’s tribute to Derek Draper

Susanna Reid was on the verge of tears as she read Kate Garraway’s tribute to Derek Draper

The 53-year-old ‘Good Morning Britain’ host read a new statement from her fellow TV presenter on Monday’s (08.01.24) episode of the ITV breakfast show , in which co-anchor Kate reflected on the devastating loss of her beloved husband, who died last week, aged 56, after a four-year-long COVID-19 battle.

Kate’s emotional statement read: “Hello everyone. Thank you all so much for all the wonderful messages you have sent me.

"It really does mean so much to me, Darcey, Billy, and all of Derek's family.

"They are an extraordinary comfort, and I am so lucky to feel connected to you all through these messages at this time when the raw pain of grief can be so isolating.

"And that is the wonderful thing, isn't it, about our GMB family - that all of us on the team and all of you watching from home are connected, supporting each other through the challenges of life.

"Knowing that we can also laugh at the fun and joys together that we share too.”

The 56-year-old TV star – who had two children, Darcey, 17, and Billy, 14, with the political advisor-turned-psychotherapist - then emphasised that the support she and her family has received will continue to “sustain” them for the years to come.

She added: "I am certain that it is the support you have given me and sent to Derek that has sustained us through these tough nearly 4 years, motivating us to fight on for each other and for those that can't fight for themselves. And it will sustain us to continue that fight in the weeks and months and years to come.

"I look forward to waking up with you very soon again on GMB to celebrate life in all its wonder and challenge again.

"I hope you forgive me for taking some time to be at home. My family is so grateful we could be with our dearest Derek in his final moments, something not all get to share.

"Maybe you too are going through grief yourself, or have done in the past. I send love and support to you too. We are taking time to heal ourselves, now that Darcey and Billy know their Daddy is at peace and free from pain and struggle.

"I shall be thinking of you all until we are reunited very soon.

"In the meantime, hug your loved ones close - all my love, Kate."

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