Kate Garraway marks major first since husband Derek Draper's death and says 'this is a moment'

Kate Garraway has marked a significant 'first' since the death of her husband, Derek Draper, earlier this year. The Good Morning Britain presenter attended her first red carpet event since his passing and was honoured with an award for her Outstanding Contribution to TV and Radio.

The 56-year-old shared a series of photos from the event on her Instagram account on Tuesday, including snaps of her receiving her award and posing with her close friend and fellow presenter, Ben Shephard. In a heartfelt caption, she wrote: "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 its award 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 @benshephardofficial - so special."

She concluded her post by congratulating all the other winners of the night, including James Corden, Sheridan Smith, Joan Collins and Jane McDonald, reports the Express. Fans of the ITV star were quick to congratulate her in the comments section, with many saying how proud Derek would be of her.

One Instagram user commented: "Absolutely deserved. Congratulations. Derek would be proud." Another added: "So pleased for you Kate - you are so humble and need to shout this award from the rooftops! ! ! ! Derek will be beaming from ear to ear right now! ! ! ! ".

A third shared: "You deserve it, Kate. You light up the screen when you are on. Your enthusiasm even after what you have been through is amazing. You are a special lady."

Another follower remarked: "Congratulations Kate, you are so deserving of the award! You're an extraordinary and special lady! ".

And a fifth stated: "Absolutely fantastic @kategarraway and so truly well deserved. Really pleased for you, recognition for everything you've done and your continued hard work and dedication."

Derek passed away in January at the age of 56 after battling serious health issues stemming from Coronavirus. He was considered one of the UK's longest-suffering Covid patients, having spent 13 months in hospital following his infection in 2020.