Did you ‘Walk With Walnut’? Hundreds join whippet Walnut and owner on Cornwall beach for his last walk and even more go on a ‘virtual’ walk

Walnut the Whippet enjoyed a last walk on his favourite beach in Cornwall (Image: Mark Woods)

This morning Mark Woods took his beloved whippet Walnut for his last walk on his favourite beach in Cornwall before the frail 18-year-old pet is put to sleep.

After inviting dog walkers to join them through social media, Walnut's story has been shared across the globe so while this morning hundreds of dogs and owners joined Mr Woods and Walnut on Porth Beach in Newquay, even more were taking a 'virtual' walk with their pets in their own home towns.

Mr Woods said he bought Walnut as a puppy and the dog 'has been my strength for many years', so wanted to give him a last day to remember.

And he certainly achieved it, with dozens giving the pet a final stroke as Mr Woods carried him on the beach. Walnut even managed a last paddle in the sea for as long as his weakening legs allowed.

'He has had an incredible life and having reached the grand age of 18 is ready for his final sleep,' said a tearful Mr Woods.

'It was such a simple thing and something I did spur of the moment but it really has struck a chord with people.'

This morning the Walking With Walnut Facebook page has been inundated with pictures of people walking their dogs and sending messages of love and support.

* Did you do a virtual walk with Walnut? Send in your pictures to imagecurators@archant.co.uk.