Gardeners’ World: Monty Don announces death of beloved pet dog Nigel

'Rest now, old friend,' wrote the BBC2 nature show's presenter

Nigel, the beloved dog who regularly appeared on BBC2 show Gardeners’ World, has died.

Host Monty Don announced the news on his Twitter page, which led to tributes from broadcasters, including Sophie Raworth and Reverend Richard Coles.

“I am very sorry to announce that Nigel has died,” Don wrote.

“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.”

Nigel frequently appeared on Gardeners’ World alongside Don’s other dog, Nellie.

The pooch was also the subject of Don’s autobiographical book Nigel: My Family and Other Dog, which was released in 2016.

Don has been the show’s lead presenter since 2011, and hosts the show from his own garden, Longmeadow, in Herefordshire.

“Lovely boy. What a blessing. Condolences from me, Monty,” Reverend Richard Coles wrote in reply to Don’s tweet.

“Oh Monty! So sorry x” added Sophie Raworth.

BBC Breakfast presenter Dan Walker commented: “How grim to hear. Sorry Monty. He was a much loved part of the GW experience.”