Kate Garraway has begun her first holiday with her new boyfriend, Liam Halligan, approximately two years after the passing of her husband, Derek Draper.
Garraway, 59, the presenter for "Good Morning Britain," accompanied Halligan, a 57-year-old economic journalist, on a work trip to Italy over the weekend. The couple has been dating for three months, but their acquaintance spans 20 years. Halligan was also a friend of Garraway's late husband.
According to reports, Halligan was traveling to Europe for professional reasons and invited Garraway to join him. A source indicated that the trip would be low-key, with the couple hoping to spend time together and enjoy Italian cuisine. Their trip follows Halligan's recent comments about a "definite spark" between them as their relationship develops. He noted that they have "much in common" despite working in different media sectors.
The couple was observed together in May during the Duchenne Dash, an annual charity cycle ride to Paris, where Garraway was seen supporting Halligan. Halligan commented on the public's interest in their relationship, humorously noting his surprise at being a subject of showbiz news.
Halligan has previously stated that while they come from different media backgrounds, they share a sense of humor and that there is a "definite spark." He also mentioned that they had become good friends after both experiencing the end of their previous relationships "against our wishes." He confirmed he knew Derek Draper and had been a political commentator.
Speculation about their romance began in March when they were seen together in Saffron Walden, Halligan's hometown. Reports at the time suggested Garraway was "giddy" about the new relationship, with a source telling The Mail on Sunday that it was lovely for her friends and family to see her finding happiness, while acknowledging she would always love Derek Draper and continue to grieve.