Gardeners' World presenter Monty Don says the support he has received after the death of his beloved dog Nigel has been "overwhelming".
On Monday, the presenter revealed on Instagram that his golden retriever Nigel had died after falling ill.
“To the end he was happy, healthy and his usual calm, lovely self," he wrote. "But he was suddenly taken ill and he slipped quietly away with no pain or suffering and is now buried in the garden with lots of tennis balls.
“Rest now old friend. See you in the sweet bye and bye.”
Fans soon sent their well wishes to Don and on Twitter, tributes were sent from accounts such as Fabulous Finn, one set up for a police dog who survived a stabbing and appeared on Britain’s Got Talent.
“Anyone who watches Gardeners World will know of Monty Don’s beautiful dogs Nell, Patti and of course the legend that is Nigel," the post read.
“Sadly Nigel has passed away. Please join me in sending our regards to Monty, Nell, Patti and the family.”
“Very saddened to hear that Monty Don’s lovely dog Nigel has passed away. I’ve always had dogs, they’re generally much better than people,” wrote another fan.
A third said: “So very sorry to hear that Nigel has passed @TheMontyDon. I remember him as a youngster & have loved following him. Always with a ball. He will be waiting…”
Don subsequently thanked fans, writing: "Thank you for all your lovely and kind messages about Nigel. They are overwhelming.
"I have posted more pictures of him on my website montydon.com."
Don has previously spoken about how Nigel helped him through periods of depression.
Nigel was frequently spotted on Gardener’s World, and Don wrote a book about his beloved friend in 2016 called Nigel: My Family and Other Dogs.
Gardeners’ World airs on BBC Two on Fridays at 9pm.
