Eamonn Holmes unable to attend mother's funeral due to health reasons

Eamonn Holmes has appeared virtually at his mother's funeral as he was not well enough to travel.

The 62-year-old Northern Irish broadcaster paid tribute to his late mother Josie - who died aged 93 - via videolink, during a service at St Patrick’s Church in Belfast.

According to the Belfast Telegraph, Holmes addressed the congregation saying: “Thank you for being there today on what is a work day.

Read more: Eamonn Holmes pays tribute after death of his 'beautiful' mum

“My name is Eamonn and I am the second son - my other brothers being Emmett, Connor and Leonard Holmes - of Josie.

“They are all here today and I love and respect them so much for what they constantly do for mum.

“Unfortunately I can only be here virtually but I am watching it on the television.”

The GB News presenter added on Instagram: "To all of you who cared and sent so many messages of condolences re My Mum..I am genuinely humbled and overwhelmed. U have been a great comfort. We lay her to rest this morning. Thank you."

The former This Morning host is recovering from a fractured shoulder after suffering a fall at home.

Holmes had taken a leave of absence from GB News to undergo back surgery.

The former GMTV presenter – who is married to Loose Women star Ruth Langsford – has spoken openly about his battle with chronic pain in recent years and had an operation on his spine on Wednesday 28 September.

The TV star has three slipped discs in his back caused by a dislocated pelvis and has suffered ongoing problems for the past few years as a result, including chronic pain and insomnia.

Holmes said his pelvis "mysteriously" dislocated in 2021 and put his back out of alignment as a result.

Read more: Eamonn Holmes opens up on 'hellish' recovery from fall

He underwent a double hip replacement in 2016. The surgery was carried out in a bid to tackle excruciating hip, leg and back pain he had secretly suffered for more than 20 years.

Watch: Eamonn Holmes announces family news on This Morning