Loose Women star Gloria Hunniford has opened up on how she is marking her first Christmas without her husband Stephen Way, who passed away in August after a long illness

TV legend Gloria Hunniford is lighting up her home like “Blackpool Illuminations” this Christmas, the first without her beloved husband Stephen Way. The Loose Women star, who recently took a break from the show following Stephen’s passing in August after a long illness, has found comfort in festive decorations.

Speaking to Best magazine, she revealed: “My house is already like Blackpool Illuminations. There is a gardener at Hever Castle called Michael, who came round to help me. It’s all done and up. ” She also expressed her determination, saying, “I’m glad that I did it. I’m the first in the road to do it.”

The 84 year old presenter fondly recalled past Christmases, including those since losing her daughter Caron Keating, the former Blue Peter host, to breast cancer in 2004 at just 41. One year, they even had “six trees” in their home.

Now, her son Michael Keating is organising “three days of celebrating” to unite the family, including Caron’s sons Gabriel and Charlie. Looking back on her time with Stephen, Gloria reflected on the “Thirty Christmases with Stevie.”

Gloria has found solace in her family’s presence, sharing, “He always stayed with me. You can imagine what a difference it will be but my son Michael has organised three days of celebrating, and both of Caron’s boys will be with me – when a door closes, a window opens. I saw them being born. Caron asked me – that is very special.”

Gloria will continue to celebrate Christmas with her two sons
The TV presenter also spoke about continuing life amidst grief, reminiscing about the “joyous” celebrations of Charlie’s wedding that occurred ten days after her husband’s death: “I was determined it would be a joyous day. I loved that day, so that is a lesson. I must remember I can go to events and be happy.”

Gloria had been married to her husband since 1998, and his death has left a profound gap in their lives. She touched upon this loss by saying, “Stephen was a gentleman and a giant of a man, who will leave the most enormous void not only in my life but our entire family. “.

Reflecting on the kind-hearted nature of her late husband, she lovingly recalled: “He was an incredibly kind, generous, and caring man, with a delightfully quirky sense of humour, which remained till the end.”

Gloria says a ‘light has dimmed’ since Stephen’s passing earlier this year

Gloria treasured the memories of their 25-year marriage, stating: “We had a tremendously happy 25-year marriage and did so many beautiful and exciting things together that I will always cherish.” She expressed her deep sorrow, saying: “It’s a great shock and words cannot express my sadness at this time. A bright shining light has dimmed, and he shall be missed at every turn.”