Gardeners' World star Monty Don to 'drink deep' to memory to much-missed favourite who was beloved by viewers

The host of Gardeners' World Monty Don has posted a touching tribute to his beloved dog Nigel. Don's golden retriever made regular appearances on the long-running BBC show.

But the popular pooch died in 2020, aged 12. On what would have been Nigel's 16th birthday today, May 17, Don issued a heartfelt message on his Facebook page. He wrote: "Today would have been Nigel's 16th birthday. We shall drink deep to his memory."

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The 68-year-old presenter issued a heartfelt tribute to Nigel on the dog's death in 2020, describing it as a "great shock and sadness". He wrote on his website: "He was 12 and had a good life and his end was quick and painless and came after a very happy day when he walked and ate and played - gently - seemingly without a care."

Don also revealed how Nigel had "star quality" and was "adored" by the camera. He added: "I never had to tell him where to lie or walk because he instinctively knew exactly where and how to pose to capture the best light.

"He would spend every minute of a filming day with the crew, waiting patiently for his call and then happily repeating the same walk or actions again and again for the camera, getting right every time. He invariably stole every scene, every show."

Gardeners' World airs tonight on BBC Two at 8pm.