Kate Garraway visits Derek Draper's grave with kids on 'tough' first Father's Day since his death

Kate Garraway has paid an emotional tribute to her late husband Derek Draper on the first Father's Day since his death as she visited his grave with their children.

The former political lobbyist, from Chorley, died aged 56 on January 3 following a long battle with Covid-19. Good Morning Britain star Kate has today (June 17) shared on Instagram a previously unseen photo of herself and Derek with their children, Darcey, 18, and Billy, 14.

The 57-year-old admitted their first Father's Day without the dad-of-two had been "tough", revealing they had visited her husband's grave. She wrote: "So yesterday was one of those days the kids & I knew would be tough.

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"#fathersday - the day when everyone wants to celebrate their daddy. We started by visiting Derek’s grave early - and talked about all the amazing things we loved about him, the daft things he did to make us laugh and all the things he has given us that we’ll never forget. We have so much to be grateful for.

"We’re also so grateful to still have my amazing dad in our lives and Derek’s dad too >>> Brilliant Papa & Grandad."

Kate then went on to explain how they spent the rest of the day. She added: "Then thanks to my fab @global family we went to the #capitalsummertimeball - an amazing day of music & summer joy. It was sad coming home & not finding Derek waiting to hear 'all about it' as he used to say.

"But so wonderful that we had him at all. I know for so many yesterday would have been a tough day so here’s to getting through and let’s celebrate all the wonderful fathers & father figures & what they gift us every day. #love #gratitude #letscelebratelife."

Her fans and followers were quick to respond with messages of love and support. @momma_wooly1 said: "Gorgeous photo , memories to treasure . Lots of love and strength to you and your beautiful family." @karen.potter.505 wrote: "Awh I bet it was a tough day Kate, Derek will always be with you. thinking if you all."

@georginacolebourne commented: "Sending you all huge hugs and lots of love. Know he was loved so much and he knew it. Take care." @cazablanca63 shared: "Beautiful words Kate. Sending love to you all." @tinadar123 added: "Lots of love @kategarraway you are such a pillar of love and strength."