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Belfast Live
Belfast Live
National
Lauren Harte

Outpouring of support for BBC NI weather presenter Barra Best after death of beloved dog

Northern Ireland presenter Barra Best has been flooded with messages of condolences and support from fans and viewers after revealing the death of his dog has left him "shattered".

The BBC Northern Ireland weatherman was emotional as he shared the death of his beloved boxer Maggie during a weather report.

On Saturday, Barra announced the news of Maggie's death with his Twitter followers, writing: "Give your dog an extra hug today from us. Maggie’s gone to sleep.

Read more: Contestants wanted for new series of Mastermind filming in NI

"She brought us such love and fun over the years and made it to the grand age of 13 1/2. Shattered."

He revealed Maggie had lived until she was over 13 years and he described the beloved pet as bringing "love and fun over the years" to him and his partner, Colin Daly.

Barra added that the loss of Maggie had left him feeling "shattered" alongside a red heart emoji.

On Friday, Barra had tweeted: "Our Mags, the boxer - 13.5 years young. She’s not too well these days but the beach at Whiteabbey in County Antrim still gets her excited."

Barra, who presents the weather and TV news, revealed his heartbreaking loss as he presented the forecast on Saturday as a photo of Maggie playing at the beach flashed up during the report.

He later shared a screenshot of the broadcast on Twitter as he wrote: "Sleep well, Maggie."

Viewers were left moved to tears by the scenes and took to social media to send well wishes and condolences to the heartbroken presenter.

One said: "Thinking of you Barra, I could see the sadness in your expression today. I’m sure Maggie had the best life, and I understand how tough it is."

Another echoed that sentiment, writing: "We lost our boxer two years ago, just shy of 13. Very hard; I found a few mementos about the place really helped, just to see her wee face. Big hug."

"Handled like a champ Barra, that's not something I could have done. A lovely touch," sent another.

"Such a lovely touch having her picture on the forecast. Lucky girl to have been so loved. Really sorry for your loss Barra," added a fourth.

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