Fly away towards the dreams you've left far behind'

THE worlds of showbusiness to and politics came together yesterday pay their respects as Kate Garraway bid farewell to her beloved husband Derek Draper.

- Tom Bryant

Their daughter, Darcey, 17, helped carry her father's coffin, covered with purple and white flowers, from St Mary the Virgin Church, North London - where former Labour political lobbyist Derek, 56, married Good Morning Britain presenter Kate in September 2005.

Wearing purple-tinted glasses - Derek's favourite colour their friend, pop star Sir Elton John, 76, performed his 1969 song Skyline Pigeon as a tribute during the two-hour service at the church in Primrose Hill.

The song contains the poignant lyrics, "Fly away, skyline pigeon fly, towards the dreams, you've left so very far behind".

Elton had his Sir invited Kate, 56, and Derek to to be guests of honour at his Farewell Yellow Brick Road concert at London's 02 Arena last year.

The order of service paid tribute to the singer, who "dear a became friend" and "supported them right from the very first day" Derek fell seriously ill with Covid in March 2020.

Darcey and her brother Billy, 14, left notes on wreaths on the coffin, which said "I love you with all my heart" and "I love you Dad".

Kate fought back tears at the funeral.