Smooth Radio presenter and broadcaster Kate Garraway has shared news of her husband Derek passing away after a long illness.
Radio industry colleagues have sent condolences following Kate’s statement on Instagram on Friday.
Kate said:” I’m sad to have to tell you all that my darling husband Derek has passed away. As some of you may know he has been critically ill following a cardiac arrest in early December which, because of the damage inflicted by Covid in March 2020, led to further complications. Derek was surrounded by his family in his final days and I was by his side holding his hand throughout the last long hours and when he passed.
“I have so much more to say, and of course I will do so in due course, but for now I just want to thank all the medical teams who fought so hard to save him and to make his final moments as comfortable and dignified as possible.
“Sending so much love and thanks to all of you who have so generously given our family so much support. Rest gently and peacefully now Derek, my love, I was so lucky to have you in my life.”
Global shared this message, also on social media: “We are sending all our love to Kate Garraway following the heart-breaking news that her husband, Derek, has died.
“Everyone at Global is so saddened by the news, Kate is a much-loved member of the Global family and a cherished friend to her Smooth Radio listeners. Our thoughts are with her and her family at this incredibly sad time. We are so sorry for your loss Kate and are sending you all our love.”
We are sending all of our love to Kate Garraway following the heartbreaking news that her husband, Derek Draper, has died. 💜 pic.twitter.com/wj0H5a6JvO
— Smooth Radio (@SmoothRadio) January 5, 2024
We are sending all our love to @KateGarraway following the heart-breaking news that her husband, Derek, has died. Everyone at Global is so saddened by the news. Our thoughts are with Kate & her family at this incredibly sad time. 💜 pic.twitter.com/CppLSy0Or0
— Global (@global) January 5, 2024