'Grief hits you at CHRISTMAS'

Kate Garraway opens up about the 'emotional' festive season and her family's traditions

- ARIANA LONGSON

Christmas is a poignant time for many and can stir up a range of emotions, particularly in those grieving for loved ones. This is something Kate Garraway – who lost her husband Derek Draper in January 2024 after a four-year battle with complications of Covid-19 – knows all too well. ‘Christmas is emotional for so many people for so many reasons,’ the star, who is mum to Darcey, 19, and Billy, 16, admits.

Kate, 58, explains, ‘You think about times gone by and how things have changed.’ And, while she says, ‘I hope I won’t be blubbing all day,’ Kate acknowledges ‘there will be emotional moments’. However, she is determined to make it ‘fun and happy’ for Darcey and Billy, who she recognises have had a ‘tough few years’.

Here, the Good Morning Britain presenter reveals her plans for the festive season, how she navigates grief at this time of year and opens up about her family.

Remembering Derek

Traditions are what make Christmas magical, and Kate – who divided the country with her hilarious gameplay on The Celebrity Traitors earlier this year – plans to honour Derek by keeping their family’s festive rituals going.