Kate Garraway has shared a candid update with her followers as the family marked a big milestone over the weekend.
The Good Morning Britain and Smooth Radio presenter revealed her daughter Darcey turned 18 but that she didn't want a celebration so soon after her dad Derek Draper's passing. Derek died aged 56 in January, he had been living with extreme complications from Covid-19 since contracting the disease in March 2020 and had been critically ill following a cardiac arrest in early December.
Taking to Instagram, Kate told her followers that Derek would have wanted his daughter's big day to be "marked and special" so detailed how she set about making it happen. Sharing a video clip of the preparations, which included a gorgeous table setting, pink balloons, an impressive tiered cake, and family photographs, Kate, 56, told her 1.2 million followers: "So yesterday our little baby Darcey got officially and legally big - 18!!!"
"She had said she didn't want a celebration as it was too soon after her dad passing, but maybe a small family lunch at home. I knew her dad would want the day to be marked and special though so I sent up a bat signal to @myleeneklass who rallied the most amazing gang of #warriorwomen and #warriormen."
Kate extended her heartfelt gratitude to those who contributed to the successful celebration, adding: "Huge thanks for insane kindness goes to Meg @mysticalfariesparties (including the most gorgeous brownies ever), scrummy food from @mysupperhero. A cake that took Darceys breath away @tamostreats. And the best teen Instagram backdrop ever!! @eventsbysk.
Richard 'shuts up' GMB guest who says Hancock 'deserved' being called 'd***head'"Extra Hands @myleeneklass @simmotson @clare.barber2, Lily Katz @sencymiller.x Tony and John Chittenden and the whole @global gang." Myleene also shared a glimpse of the celebrations on her own Instagram, writing: "How she pulled it off, I can't believe it. It looks amazing." The post showed the fun unfold as Kate and Myleene were seen setting up the birthday soirée before they presented Darcey with a magnificent pink birthday cake, drizzled with icing and topped with gold cherries.
Heartwarming well wishes poured in from Kate's Good Morning Britain family, with Laura Tobin extending a cheerful "Happy 18th Darcey," and Alex Beresford added, "Happy 18th Birthday Darcey." Fans also joined in the celebration, with one writing, "Oh this is lovely, what a fabulous friend Myleene is and happy birthday to Darcey. Her dad will be with her but it must have been so tough for you all. " Another remarked, "Happy birthday Darcy! You definitely deserve the celebration."