A GARDENER’S World fan-favourite has passed away suddenly, with BBC anchor Monty Don admitting he is “heartbroken”.
The 71-year-old revealed the sad news on his Instagram page and admitted they suffered a “very short illness”.
Monty‘s Yorkshire Terrier pooch Patti, who made her Gardener’s World debut in 2020, has passed aged seven.
He uploaded a series of snaps showing his adorable pet exploring the great outdoors, and one image showing her cuddled to his chest, with the caption: “I have sad news.
“Our lovely Patti died suddenly this morning after a very short illness.
“She was much loved, and lit up our lives.
read more gardener’s world
“We are all heartbroken”.
One fan was quick to send condolences and wrote: “Such a shock for you, Patti was a lovely little dog we always enjoyed seeing her on GW. X”
A second put: “So very sorry for your loss”.
A third then posted: “Monty, I’m so sorry to hear this very sad news, today! Thinking of you all at this difficult time.
“Patti was adored not only by you but the nation too! RIP dear Patti”.
She is the smallest of Monty’s dogs, with the gardening icon also owning Golden Retriever Ned, who also appears on screen.
In 2023, Monty told how an accident in lockdown led to Patti retreating from camera life.
Replying to one concerned fan online, he penned: “She hates the tripods because one fell on her during lockdown.
“That is why you always see me holding her. When the cameras are not here she is out with me all the time.”
His fellow Golden Retrievers Nigel sadly passed in 2020, while pooch Nell died three years later.