GB News Breakfast host Eamonn Holmes was notably absent from Tuesday's programme (February 11), telling fans that he was away from his post to attend a funeral.
The seasoned morning presenter was substituted by Ben Leo for the day while he paid his respects at the funeral of Manchester United icon Denis Law, who passed away on January 17.
"I was at a very nice funeral yesterday, a worthy send off for the iconic footballer Denis Law in Manchester yesterday," he shared upon his return to the breakfast show.
He went on to praise the service for its good music and mentioned that lyrics were provided so attendees could all join in with singing. As a devoted Manchester United supporter, Eamonn also cherished a personal connection with Denis, having collaborated with him during his time at BBC Manchester.
"We worked together for the BBC in Manchester, and he was very good. And I became his taxi driver as well. So it is that was very nice. Very lovely. Very, very funny, very mercurial man," Eamonn reminisced, reports the Express.
The football ace passed away in Aberdeen, Scotland on January 17 at the age of 84. He'd long battled with Alzheimer's as well as vascular dementia, following his diagnosis in 2021.
His children explained in a statement that he'd fought a "tough battle" as they hailed those who had cared for him over the years, especially at the end of his life.
The memorial service was held at Manchester Cathedral and was attended by GB News star Eamonn, Denis' beloved family, friends and football fans who all wanted to be there to pay their respects to the footballing great.
Before arrival at the cathedral at 1:20pm, the funeral procession headed down Sir Matt Busby Way and briefly stopped by the Holy Trinity statue.
Sir Alex Ferguson, Gary Neville, Paul Scholes, Ruud van Nistelrooy and Bryan Robson from Manchester United were all in attendance to pay their respects.
Scotland hero Kenny Dalgish and Peter Schmeichel were also spotted arriving, while the son of late George Best Calum also made an appearance to honour Denis.
There was speculation that Sir Rod Stewart might make an appearance and while he didn't make it to the venue, he did sent a bouquet of flowers with kind words. The card read: "You are, and always will be, my footballing hero."
Denis' death is particularly poignant because he was the last remaining survivor of the iconic United Trinity, alongside Sir Bobby Charlton, who died in 2023 and George Best, who passed away in 2005.
Breakfast with Eamonn and Ellie is on GB News every weekday from 6am to 9.30am. GB News is available on Freeview, YouView, Freesat, Sky, and Virgin Media.
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