Gardeners' World star Monty Don shares heartwrenching update with fans

BBC Gardeners' World star Monty Don has revealed what happened to the touching tributes to both his deceased and current dogs, which were part of his garden at this year's RHS Chelsea Flower Show. The 70-year-old had never created a garden for the legendary annual event before, but was tempted by the fact that he was invited to create a dog-friendly space. As part of the design, Monty used paving stones bearing the names of dogs he has loved and lost, Nigel and Nellie, as well as his current canines, Ned and Patti, who frequently appear on Gardeners' World alongside him.

Taking to Instagram, he posted an image of the paving and revealed he had moved it to his own garden following the show. "These were part of the Chelsea Dog garden - now in place here at Longmeadow," he penned to his 1.3 million followers. His fans loved the tribute and took to the comments to share their feelings. "Such a great way to honour your doggie family members," one wrote.

"Beautiful memories forever," another wrote. "Beautiful and poignant," a third commented. A fourth chimed in: "How lovely, such a beautiful idea."

A fifth added: "So nice you were able to bring them home lots of memories when you look at them. xx" Meanwhile a sixth shared: "Looking forward to seeing the rebuild. A nice way to remember the dog garden."

Nigel, a golden retriever, died in May 2020, six days before his 12th birthday. Monty later explained the poorly pooch had suffered from "violent fits all night" before his death.

Monty admitted the tragic moment was a shock for him, as Nigel had never had seizures before.

Just a few years later in November 2023, Monty confirmed that his beloved dog Nellie had sadly died following a battle with cancer.

He wrote: "She was diagnosed with cancer in June and every day this summer has been a gift but it is over now.

"We buried her in the garden next to Nigel wrapped in one of my jackets with flowers, balls and her favourite biscuits.

"Her end was peaceful and dignified and ended obvious suffering but it never gets any easier to bear," he added.