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Kate Garraway has paid tribute to ITV co-host Ben Shephard’s “phenomenal” friendship in a “horrendous and difficult” year.
The Good Morning Britain star has been living on a knife edge since March, with her husband Derek Draper in hospital battling Covid-19 and spending months in a coma.
Kate, 53, said: “For 20 years, Ben’s had to do so much for me but this year’s been another level. He's been trying to do everything he can to help – it’s been a huge pressure on him.
“Working alongside somebody you’re worried about, plus also trying to do the job… it’s a huge thing. I’m aware how tough it’s been for him.”
Her praise came as the pair prepare to host a virtual version of GMB’s 1 Million Minutes Awards, celebrating those who give time to help others.
Ben, 45, said despite what Kate and children Darcey, 14, and Billy, 11, are going through, she remained inspirational.
He said: “Her eternal positivity is something we can all look at. There’s not a moment where that admiration tarnishes.”
Kate called this year’s awards on December 17 “more magnificent and uplifting” than ever, adding: “Never before have we [so] needed people’s goodwill to get us through.”