Strictly's Annabel Croft can't pick up husband's ashes 9 months after his death

20 February 2024 , 13:01

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Strictly's Annabel Croft can't pick up husband's ashes 9 months after his death

Annabel Croft has admitted she still can't pick up her husband's ashes, nine months after his death.

The Strictly Come Dancing star appeared on This Morning today to help others with their grief. Annabel lost her husband, Mel Coleman, who passed away from stomach cancer, after 36 years together. Appearing on the show on Tuesday with Craig Doyle and Josie Gibson, Annabel joined a phone-in chat about dealing with grief.

As callers poured their hearts out about feeling lost and shattered due to the demise of their loved ones, Annabel spoke frankly along with This Morning's agony aunt Deidre Sanders - who also lost her husband about a year ago.

Annabel discussed grief with This Morning callers today (ITV)

During one call, a woman named Joan opened up about her despair over losing her partner and being unable to get his ashes from the crematorium. Annabel admitted it was something she has struggled with too, as she said: "Joan, I'm so sorry for your loss and I can feel your pain and I'm going through the same thing as you, but you're even more recent.

"And if it's any consolation, I have not picked up my husband's ashes yet and I'm, what, eight or nine months in. It was just the finality of knowing that my husband, who was such a vibrant person and character with such a great sense of humour, was suddenly going to be in this urn or box - and I just couldn't do it."

Strictly's Molly Rainford and Tyler West fuel romance rumours while on tour

Annabel lost her husband back in May 2023 (Dave Benett/Getty Images)

Annabel took part in the most recent series of Strictly alongside Johannes Radebe (BBC/Guy Levy)

Strictly star Annabel admitted that sometimes she drives past the crematorium and thinks about getting her husband's ashes but can't bring herself to do it. Annabel also offered advice to others who called in, and fans rushed to social media to praise Annabel.

One person wrote on social media: "Annabel is doing an amazing job, she's so empathetic," whilst another person said: "Annabel is so so lovely, bless her - so sorry for her and anyone else who is dealing with grief!" A third shared: "This is so heartbreaking, Annabel is just so lovely when talking to everyone," with a fourth adding: "Annabel is doing such a good job here!"

After the phone-in session, Craig and Josie thanked Annabel for coming on the show as they acknowledged her strength. With gratitude in her voice, Annabel said how thankful she was for having her family to support her during difficult times. She also shared one more piece of advice always make sure to keep your smiling even after suffering a loss.

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Jasmine Allday