Derek DRAPERKate Garraway 's beloved husband Derek Draper has died at the age of 56, the TV star has announced.
The Good Morning Britain presenter announced the sad news this morning, sharing how her beloved husband was surrounded by his loved ones as he passed away.
This Morning presenters Alison Hammond and Dermot O'Leary paid tribute to Derek on the ITV show amid the news breaking and sent their love to Kate and her children as they read Kate's heart-breaking statement out live on-air.
Susanna Reid, Kate's Good Morning Britain colleague, and Lorraine Kelly were among the first of the star's famous friends to send their love and support to the grieving mum-of-two, with Alastair Campbell, a fellow prominent New Labour figure in the 1990s, describing former political lobbyist Derek as "a huge character".
Kate, who had been by Derek's side over Christmas following her husband's heart attack last month, thanked "all of you who have so generously given our family so much support" as she shared the sad news that her husband's almost four-year battle to recover from Covid-19 has come to an end.
Born in Chorley, Lancashire, Derek studied at Runshaw College in Leyland before continuing his studies at the University of Manchester. During his time at university, Derek kick-started his political career thanks to providing hospitality for Ken Livingstone, who had missed his train after a Labour Club meeting.
Officially beginning his political career in 1990 as the constituency secretary for Nick Brown, Derek went on to work as a researcher for the then MP for Hartlepool Peter Mandelson. In 1996, the late dad-of-two became a director of a lobbying firm called GPC Market Access, and was employed by them until early 1999.
Derek's career also saw him work as the Political Editor of the Modern Review, host a show on Talk Radio, briefly write a column for the Daily Express and author two books, Blair's 100 Days and Life Support. After leaving the world of politics behind, Derek retrained as a psychotherapist, obtaining an MA in clinical psychology.
He is survived by his wife Kate, whom he married in 2005, and their two children, Darcey and Billy.
Our thoughts are with Derek's family and friends at this sad time. We invite you to pay tribute to Derek below.
*Credit mirror.co.uk for the story.
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