Keith Lemon felt like Caroline Flack was there with him as she was honoured at Flackstock.
The late Love Island presenter was remembered by a big group of her friends and family at a special festival back in July. It was held at Englefield House and was a tribute to Caroline's memory.
A new documentary about the festival aired on Sky tonight, as they gave an insight into what happened behind the scenes as they prepared to throw the biggest celebration of Caroline's life. Keith Lemon, real name Leigh Francis, was a close friend of Caroline's and he was a big part of the day and how it all came together.
He was in attendance on the day, of course, and during an emotional interview as part of the documentary, Keith admitted he was struggling knowing she wouldn't be there. He insisted it would be a big thing for her and that she would have loved to been there too, spending time with them all as they celebrated the best of festivals.
Keith said he was just expecting to bump in there, as she knew she would have been there if she could have been.
He also got emotional as he admitted it was tough not seeing her there. Dawn O'Porter, another of Caroline's good friends, said it was a very "surreal" event for them all as they remembered Caroline together.
Caroline’s loved ones said holding Flackstock was a way of remembering her love of festivals while also raising money for charities that help those who might be struggling with their mental health.
Her mother Christine said: "My Caroline was never more herself or happier than at a music festival with her sister and her friends. Flackstock is the wonderful idea of those who knew her best and the perfect way to remember her singing, dancing and most of all laughing. Not only is Flackstock the most positive way to honour Carrie, but charities that she loved will benefit too.
"Everyone we have asked has said yes. Every band playing is a mate of hers and they’ve said they will do it for nothing. I’m so emotional just at the thought of it. I really hope it is something for her mum to focus on but most importantly, it raises funds for mental health as well as being a fitting tribute to her. We have a moral duty to help everyone out there who is really struggling."
Flackstock was held on July 25 in Berkshire in memory of Caroline, who took her own life in February 2020. Proceeds were split between four charities that held a special place in her heart – Choose Love, Mind, Samaritans and Charlie Waller Trust.
*If you're struggling and need to talk, the Samaritans operate a free helpline open 24/7 on 116 123. Alternatively, you can email jo@samaritans.org or visit their site to find your local branch.