Kate Garraway’s Christmas heartache without Derek as GMB host talks family separation

opened up about her incredibly tough year. In January, the presenter announced her husband Derek Draper had died – four years after contracting .

The mum-of-two returned to work on GMB less than a week after his funeral, saying, “Life has to start”, but has since addressed her ongoing struggles with grief.

Kate, 57, is now gearing up for her first Christmas without Derek, admitting her late husband was a huge supporter of the festive occasion.

The favourite revealed she is still finalising her plans and is “still trying to work out the details” but wants to uphold the family traditions.

She is a mum to daughter Darcey, 18, who recently left home for university, and son Billy, 15, who is gearing up for his GCSEs.

Earlier this year, Kate faced more troubles when her dad Gordon was rushed to hospital after he collapsed during a family holiday in Cornwall.

“My dad has been in hospital with a stroke and a heart attack, so we are kind of merging a different one this year, so I’m not sure [what the plan is], she told Woman.

“Darcey has gone to university so my brother and I have been talking about definitely getting the whole family together, but where and how and when, we are still working it out.”

The TV star added, “Life… you know, they are growing up, life is changing, but Father Christmas will still come home.”

Kate has also been open about her money woes after she was left owing £800k for Derek’s care.

In an interview earlier this year, Kate said she didn’t receive any help for Derek’s recovery, saying: “Derek’s needs were clearly so great, yet he didn’t warrant funded care — so you think, ‘If he isn’t getting it, then who is?'”

She further added: “It’s supposed to be a system that’s meant to catch you if you fall.

“But actually, it feels like it’s trying to catch you out.

“You feel like you’re in the dock answering questions about things that will literally mean life or death to someone you love.”