Sir Elton John and former prime minister Sir Tony Blair have joined an outpouring of tributes from the political and leisure worlds to the husband of TV presenter Kate Garraway, Derek Draper.
The 56-year-old former political adviser has died after a number of years of great well being problems on account of coronavirus.
“I am so sad to hear the news about Derek. My heart goes out to Kate and their children William and Darcey,” Sir Tony Blair mentioned.
“He was a tough sometimes ruthless political operative, a brilliant adviser and someone you always wanted on your side.
“But beneath that robust exterior he was a loving, form, beneficiant and good natured man you wished as a buddy.”
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Meanwhile, Sir Elton John sent his “love and ideas” to Garraway.
In response to her post on Instagram announcing the death, the musician wrote: “So sorry to listen to of this information, Kate. Love and ideas to you and your loved ones x.”
Draper attended the Rocket Man’s Farewell Yellow Brick Road concert at London’s O2 Arena in April after being invited along with Garraway as the guests of honour.
Fellow Good Morning Britain host Charlotte Hawkins additionally shared her sympathies with Garraway.
Alongside a photograph of Draper and Garraway which Hawkins posted to Instagram, she wrote: “Such desperately sad news about Derek.
“It’s been an extremely robust time for all of the household & Kate has been so sturdy all through all this – please ship her your love & prayers so she is aware of we’re all right here for her.”
Garraway confirmed her “darling husband” had died and she had been “by his facet holding his hand all through his final lengthy hours” earlier today.
She said he suffered a heart attack in early December, adding that “the harm inflicted by COVID… led to additional problems”.
“I’ve a lot extra to say, and naturally I’ll achieve this in the end, however for now I simply wish to thank all of the medical groups who fought so arduous to avoid wasting him and to make his last moments as snug and dignified as attainable,” she added in her Instagram put up.
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Source: information.sky.com”