Kate Garraway bids emotional farewell to daughter Darcey as she starts first year of university

Kate Garraway bids emotional farewell to daughter Darcey as she starts first year of university

Kate Garraway was on hand to help daughter Darcey as she left home to start her first year at university.

The TV presenter, described cramming the teenager’s stuff into the back of her car as like playing the stacking game Jenga.

Among her prized possessions was a framed photograph of Darcey with her family, including dad Derek Draper who died in January.

Also visible was a hat belonging to the former spin doctor which Darcey was pictured wearing while enjoying a day out with Garraway at Wimbledon over the summer.

Kate Garraway’s post revealed Darcey had taken some mementos of her late father Derek Draper, including his hat and a family photographs (Instagram @kategarraway)
Kate Garraway’s post revealed Darcey had taken some mementos of her late father Derek Draper, including his hat and a family photographs (Instagram @kategarraway)

Mr Draper died on January 3 aged 56 after suffering a heart attack just before Christmas almost four years after he first fell seriously ill with Covid.

He was plagued with health woes after contracting the virus in March 2020, and was receiving 24 hour care.

Darcey was previously pictured wearing Derek Draper’s hat during a day out with Kate Garraway at Wimbledon (Instagram @kategarraway)
Darcey was previously pictured wearing Derek Draper’s hat during a day out with Kate Garraway at Wimbledon (Instagram @kategarraway)

Garraway previously told how Darcey had opted to include her late parent in an important milestone by opening her A-Level results at his grave on his birthday.

Admitting that the house already feels “quiet” following the departure of her eldest child, the mum-of-two captioned her latest post: “And just like that she was off! That tiny helpless baby we brought home from hospital 18 yrs ago has gone to #uni!

“Just like thousands of other parents this weekend I was playing that game of Jenga trying to get it all in the car. Thank goodness my beloved Victor has a massive boot!

She added: “Such an emotional moment on so many levels & boy is the house quiet. But Darcey we couldn’t be prouder of you starting this new chapter in your life & know your Dad is with you all the way.”

The family pictured together in 2019 (PA)
The family pictured together in 2019 (PA)

Garraway’s friends including Good Morning Britain co-stars were quick to wish the teenager well on her next chapter in the comments.

“Best of luck Darcey - have an amazing time!” wrote Charlotte Hawkins followed by a red love-heart emoji.

“Have a great time Darcey xxx” echoed former Loose Women and Coronation Street star Denise Welch.

TV presenter Carol Vorderman added: “Wishing your girl all the happiness in the world on her new adventure.”