London, October 20 Late Boyzone member Stephen Gately's gay partner Andy Cowles has spoken up for the first time after the singer's death.

He reportedly said that he was finding it difficult to be back in London with the absence of his civil partner.

He added that he could not have continued to stay in Majorca, where Stephen died, or in Ireland because it was too painful.

The Internet tycoon flew back to London with Stephen's ashes after the funeral in Dublin.

He said he was "taken aback" by the expression of public grief at the loss, reports the Mirror.

Andy mentioned that many gave him support during the funeral: "Yes, there were a lot of well-wishers."

Stephen died from natural causes at his Majorca apartment, while on a holiday. (ANI)