ITV Good Morning Britain's Kate Garraway issues emotional announcement on family member

Kate Garraway shared that she was feeling "emotional" as her family embarked on a "new chapter" in their lives. The Good Morning Britain presenter posted to her Instagram account to share an update on her daughter, 18-year-old Darcey Draper.

The proud mum shared a clip of her loading up her trusty Volvo car, full of Darcey's things, as she explained that her eldest child was off to university. Among the teenager's belongings was a picture of the family together including her younger brother Billy and their late dad, Derek Draper.

While struggling to fit the last few boxes into her car, Kate said: "She thinks she's so different to me but when it comes to general chaos and kerfuffle, she's actually quite like me."

Captioning the post, the 57-year-old ITV presenter explained: "And just like that she was off! That tiny helpless baby we brought home from hospital 18 yrs ago has gone to #uni! Just like thousands of other parents this weekend I was playing that game of #student jenga trying to get it all in the car. Thank goodness my beloved Victor #volvo has a massive boot!

"Such an emotional moment on so many levels & boy is the house quiet. But Darcey we couldn’t be prouder of you starting this new chapter in your life & know your Dad is with you all the way. #happymonday everyone! #newchapter #seizetheday."

Some of Kate's co-stars and famous friends flocked to the comments of the Instagram post to wish them well. Fellow GMB star Charlotte Hawkins wrote: "Best of luck Darcey - have an amazing time!"

Former Countdown star Carol Vorderman said: "Wishing your girl all the happiness in the world on her new adventure."

While TOWIE star Carol Wright empathetically posted: "Wishing her all the luck in the world. But as much as your proud your heart aches from when one of them leave your home. I’ve had three leave so far and every time I have cried and felt empty.

"One more to go which I am holding on to with every part of me but I know she will leave soon as it’s a part of independence and growing up. Happy uni days for Darcy. Xxx"

The update is a positive one in what has been a difficult year for Kate and her family. Back in January, her husband Derek sadly died at the age of just 56, following years of serious health complications caused by coronavirus.

Thought to be one of the UK’s longest-suffering Covid patients, Derek spent 13 months in hospital after contracting the virus in 2020.