Monty Don shares moving tribute to mark his late dog Nigel’s 12th birthday

18 May 2020, 13:17 | Updated: 21 May 2020, 13:22

Gardeners' World presenter Monty Don has shared a touching tribute to his beloved late pet dog Nigel on what would have been his 12th birthday.

The 64-year-old host took to social media to share the heartbreaking post about the golden retriever.

The presenter’s pet passed away last week, with yesterday marking Monty's dog’s birthday.

Read more: Monty Don tells incredible story of how dog Nigel's life was once saved by TV's Supervet

Monty tweeted: "It would have been Nigel’s 12 birthday today. I shall raise a glass in celebration of his life."

Nigel became a surprise star after appearing on Gardeners’ World, receiving his own fan mail, social media fan accounts.

Monty's other dog Nellie also often appeared alongside the presenter on the gardening programme. In 2016, Monty released a book called Nigel: My family and other dogs.

Read more: Monty Don tells incredible story of when dog Nigel's life was saved by TV's Supervet

Last Monday, Monty revealed Nigel had died after he was taken ill and is now buried with "lots of tennis balls".

Monty wrote: "I am very sorry to announce that Nigel has died.

Read more: Monty Don shares unseen photos of dog Nigel in tribute to beloved 'old friend'

"To the end he was happy, healthy and his usual calm, lovely self.

"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."