A FORMER Sky Sports presenter from Reading has thanked his 'new love' for bringing his son "to life" following the death of his wife.

Simon Thomas, former Blue Peter and Sky Sports presenter, has taken to Instagram to thank his current partner, Derrina Jebb, for her support.

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The post shows a picture of Mr Thomas' son which was taken "nearly two years ago".

The post explained: "I remember looking at it at the time and thinking this is it.

"Game over.

"My boy’s life is over.

"It was never ever going to be over.

"I sometimes look at him and see him laughing and get caught up in a gushing wave of happiness and pride."

He continued: "I know part of this has been down to me; but so much has been down to @derrina I sometimes say to her that she doesn’t see the Ethan when she’s not around - calm, lovely but often quiet.

"When Derrina is around he comes to life.

"His whole body language changes and the laughter fills the house.

"Me and my boy are beyond blessed to live and be loved by this amazing woman."

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Mr Thomas lost his wife Gemma, aged just 40, three days after she was diagnosed with acute myeloid leukaemia (AML).

He released a book last year focusing on bereavement and addressing the question: how do you carry on when the love of your life is taken from you at such an early age?

He also took on the surprise challenge of learning to ring the bells of St Michael's Church in Tilehurst, to raise awareness and funds for AML.