Fans of EastEnders have been saddened by the news that much-loved canine soap star Wellard has died.
The Belgian Tervuren belonged to Robbie Jackson (played by Dean Gaffney) and was his second faithful companion after the original Wellard died in 2008 following a 14-year run on the BBC soap.
On Tuesday night's episode of the the show, Sonia (Natalie Cassidy) broke the bad news to Dot (June Brown) while she was visiting her in hospital, telling her: "He (Robbie) lost Wellard II a while back."
Viewers were quick to express their dismay on social media.
"Oh no, Wellard II died as well. ☹️ #EastEnders," Peta Fox posted on Twitter.
"As if they didn't try to make Robbie unlikable enough, they've now revealed he's careless with his pets. Poor Wellard II," said another.
And one fan suggested: "It's not right Robbie being back on the Square without a dog. Bring on Wellard the Third!"
The original Wellard was a fan favourite and was voted best pet at the Digital Spy Soap Awards in 2008.
He was put down after falling ill when Bianca (Patsy Palmer) accidentally fed him some chocolate.
Oh no, Wellard II died as well. ☹️ #EastEnders
— Peta Fox (@TheRadioFanatic) July 4, 2017
