Good Morning Britain presenter Kate Garraway is facing yet another heartbreaking chapter in her life as she moves to shut down Astra Aspera Ltd, a company she ran alongside her late husband, Derek Draper.
The business is currently said to be in liquidation and reportedly owes almost £1 million.
Kate Garraway ‘to close Derek Draper’s business’
The reports come in the wake of Derek Draper’s tragic passing earlier this year.
The former Labour spin doctor and psychotherapist succumbed to complications from Covid-19 in January 2023 after a four-year battle that began with a severe case of the virus in 2020. He was 56 years old.
Draper is still listed as a director on paper for Astra Aspera Ltd, which is reported to owe £913,370.
This includes a £716,822 debt to HMRC. Other debts include £196,548 owed to various other creditors – said to include a £50,000 bank loan.
This is not the first of Kate’s ventures to face financial struggles.
Two other firms, Countrymouse Media Ltd and Fulfill Media Ltd, have already been wound up by creditors. Altogether, the three companies are reportedly £2 million in debt.
‘So sad for Kate’
The mounting financial pressure recently led to speculation that the GMB presenter may have to sell her family home.
A source close to the family shared: “It is so sad for Kate. Not only has she had to watch her beloved husband suffer for almost four years, but her financial worries have never been far away from her thoughts.
“It has cost hundreds of thousands of pounds to look after Derek and do everything she could to get him better, but it’s left her struggling. The house is about all she has left financially, and she is now facing up to the fact it might have to be sold.
“It’s where she and Derek were so happy and also where her two children grew up – but bills are bills and they have to be paid. It’s dreadful for Kate.”
‘He didn’t warrant funded care’
Kate has been open about the toll her husband’s illness and care costs have taken on her finances.
She revealed earlier this year that despite Derek’s extensive needs, he did not qualify for funded care.
“Derek’s needs were clearly so great, yet he didn’t warrant funded care — so you think, if he isn’t getting it, then who is?” she said.
Kate has also expressed frustration with the healthcare system. “It’s supposed to be a system that’s meant to catch you if you fall. But actually, it feels like it’s trying to catch you out.”
In addition to her personal struggles, Kate’s TV company, Praespero 100 Ltd, is also alleged to be in debt.
Reports indicate that the firm is in the red by £165,011, with total liabilities of £208,002.
ED! has contacted Kate’s reps for comment.
Read more: Kate Garraway admits she ‘feels sick’ during harrowing GMB segment: ‘RIP sweet Sara’
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