Ben Shephard's three-word message to Kate Garraway on first birthday without Derek Draper

Ben Shephard has led the tributes to his former Good Morning Britain co-star Kate Garraway on her first birthday following the loss of her husband Derek.

The This Morning presenter took to social media over the weekend to send heartfelt birthday wishes to Kate as she turned 57. This marks her first birthday since Derek's passing in January at the age of 56.

Ben shared a nostalgic snapshot of himself with Kate behind the scenes at Good Morning Britain, where Kate is seen with her hair set in rollers. He accompanied the photo with the caption: "Not another birthday [Kate]."

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Susanna Reid, who currently shares the GMB presenting duties with Kate, also commemorated the day with a touching message. Posting a photo of the pair, she penned: "Happy birthday to my gorgeous friend @kategarraway".

Adding to the well-wishes, weather presenter Laura Tobin said: "Happy Birthday [Kate]. So happy I could share a drink with you earlier this week and toast to your Variety Club Award #Proud."

Kate recently made her first appearance on the red carpet since Derek's death, attending the Variety Club Showbusiness Awards on April 28. There, she was celebrated with the Variety Club Silver Heart Award 2024 for her Outstanding Contribution to Broadcasting - Television and Radio.

Kate took to Instagram to share her poignant moment: "Well this was a moment. My first red carpet event, following Derek's passing - and WHAT an event.

"I've been aware of the incredible work [Variety] does over its 75 years to help disabled and disadvantaged children and heard that it's awards do's are always the glitziest. I was so pleased to have an invite to attend but then to actually WIN an award was an incredible honour - a silver heart for Outstanding Contribution to TV and Radio - I guess if you cling on long enough you eventually make a contribution! ! ! ! ! !

"And then to be presented it by [Ben]- so special. Congrats to all the winners."