Broadcaster Duncan Garner

Mum,

I don’t even know how to start this letter but I know you’ll be embarrassed that such a private letter is being run in the most public of fashions. I am too. But I had no choice. The editor of this publication emailed me asking if I’d be interviewed about you.

I thought you’d say: NOOOO DON’T YOU DARE DUNCAN. So I resisted. The thought of you saying that was all I needed. So being the rule-breaker you’ve brought me up to be, I decided to write an open letter to you instead. Here goes.

Mum, I’ve just realised that you’ve never stopped being the most extraordinary Mum a son could wish for. And that’s especially so of the last few years when I’ve had to start work daily at 4am, navigate my marriage breakup and be a good Dad to my children.

I’ve lent on you and called on you more than any grown 47-year-old man should. You always oblige. I am more than grateful. Thank you. You are always smiling, always positive and always give me your unique take on whatever it is we are facing that day.

I know I never slow down to talk properly about things at times and I know I take on too much but thanks for just going with it. Sometimes it’s easier that way.

I know taking that fifth child to Jump or 10-pin bowling probably wasn’t necessary but thanks for helping out when I know you cancelled that hair appointment to give me a hand. Yes, Mum, you are mostly right but I’m a man and we keep trying things that have failed before... but one more try, you never

know. Thing is, you do know. Mums usually do.

And I know this month is harder than most and I know you feel it so acutely because in a week or so we go into our shell and struggle like it was just yesterday as we remember the day Dad died 11 years ago.

Mum, I’m shaking as I try to write this standing on the stairs in my house looking out to the back garden. Tears are streaming down my face, and I’m a mess. I miss Dad as much as you do. And he’s irreplaceable.

Time heals, but it’s never the same and this is why I rarely stop and why I rarely want to go too slow and contemplate things because it still hurts. I hope that explains it.

But you’ve softened the pain by being the best Mum a son could wish for. Loyal to a fault and generous with everything you do. Dad would approve. You’ve done him proud and you’ve done it your way too.

And one more thing: Buster. Thank you for all the love you show him. And also for what you did for the girls too when they were much younger.

Don’t be afraid to get Buster to clean the car and vacuum now and then. It won’t hurt him. And social media, etc. And the kids. It’s a beast so don’t fight it, just turn the WiFi off at the wall if you want to get their attention. It works very quickly. Then hide.

Love you Mum. Always. Xxx Duncan

You’ve softened the pain by being the best Mum a son could wish for. Loyal to a fault and generous with everything you do.