Barbara Windsor’s husband speaks out for first time since her death: ‘I can’t believe only a week ago she was still here’

EastEnders star died last week

(Getty Images)

Dame Barbara Windsor’s husband, Scott Mitchell, has spoken out publicly for the first time since her death.

The Eastenders actor died on 10 December at the age of 83 after a long battle with Alzheimer’s Disease.

On Thursday, Mitchell spoke on behalf of his late wife during Good Morning Britain's 1 Million Minutes Awards, which celebrate those who have gone above and beyond when it comes to improving the lives of others and supporting people through the pandemic.

Mitchell presented an award in Dame Windsor’s name to a carer named Nassrat Bi for her hard work on the frontlines of palliative care during the coronavirus outbreak.

Addressing Ms Bi directly, he said: "I was involved in this year's judging, as I was last year, and I think when it came to you and your story nothing could have been more poignant for me at that moment because I know you assist people going through palliative care and their families," he said via video link.

"And that's exactly what was happening to Barbara and that was exactly what was happening to me.

“I read your story and the compassion and selflessness that carers like yourself show is beyond measurable, as far as I'm concerned."

Mitchell continued: “It's incredible and I don't think there are great enough words for you.” 

He went on to discuss his own experiences of being a carer.

“I know what it takes, now, to sit next to someone at the end of life and just have comforting reassuring words coming from the carers,” he said.

“To watch your loved one be comforted and be cared for and the relief that gives you and the support to the family, you will never know what it means to loved ones to be a part of that process and to be included and cared for as well as the person who is coming to the end of their life with the disease.”

Mitchell concluded by referencing his own grief over the loss of his wife.

"I know Barbara would have adored someone with those qualities and I can't believe only a week ago she was still here and now she's not," he said

"There's the circle of life. I don't think I can still believe it to be honest with you."