Bake Off’s Terry Hartill shares emotional note thanking fans and show for helping him through ‘difficult time’ after the death of his wife
The Channel 4 series shared a photo of a hand-written letter from Terry today which left viewers in tears
BAKE OFF favourite Terry Hartill has thanked the series for helping him through his grief after his wife's death.
In an emotional handwritten note, shared to the show's Twitter page, the 56-year-old admitted he's been "overwhelmed" by the support from fans, during such a difficult time in his life.
The series, which comes to an end tonight, posted a photo of Terry's letter this morning, beside the caption: "On the day of the #GBBOfinal, it's time to share a letter we’ve recently received from lovely Terry.
"He's not on social media, but wanted to say thanks for all your kindness and encouragement..."
The heart-wrenching note began: "I would like to express a massive thank you to everybody who has supported me and my family over the last few months.
"We are so overwhelmed by the huge response we have received and I am particularly grateful for all your kind words online and on social media."
Terry went on to admit the show had helped him feel like himself again, following the recent passing of his wife.
He continued: "It has been a difficult time since the loss of my wife, and when my daughter applied for the show on my behalf we never could have expected the wonderful reaction that we have experienced and continued to receive."
However, the baker ended his message on a more light-hearted note, by joking about some of his famously disastrous bakes in the tent.
He went on: "In the tent it was tough and difficult at times (a melting Eiffel Tower for example) and I thank you all for seeing the vision!
"But it has been so very enjoyable and I have made some wonderful, lifelong friends.
"I am very excited for the future and again would like to say a huge thank you to everyone for their love and encouragement. Yours, Terry x"
The note left show fans in tears, who immediately expressed their love for the contestant in the comments.
One wrote: "That moment when you read Terry from #GBBO 's letter, and want to hug him all over again."
As others added: "This is so lovely. What a nice chap - good luck to him" and "You were a pleasure to watch Terry and we wish you all the very best for what’s to come."
His co-star Manon Lagreve even paid tribute to her pal, writing: "Awww Terry! So much love for this special man."
The Great British Bake Off reaches its climax tonight, with Ruby, Rahul and Kim-Joy fighting to be the 2018 champion.
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