A beloved therapy puppy has died after hundreds of people tried to find her after she was "spooked".
Kerry Harding bought her Cockapoo, Heidi, as a therapy dog to help her son Dylan, 18, who has cancer. On Sunday, December 4, while being looked after by a family friend Heidi became "spooked" at Eccleston Park golf park.
Heidi was spotted along the railway tracks between Huyton, Rainhill, and Whiston on Sunday evening and trains were slowed down for an hour in an effort to locate her. Hundreds of people also came out in an attempt to find the dog.
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Heidi's family updated people on Facebook to say Heidi "didn't make it" and they were all "broken".
The update read: "Thank you to everyone who has helped to look for Heidi over the last 24 hours, and the countless messages of support we’ve received. We’re devastated to have to say our Heidi didn’t make it and our family is absolutely broken.
"Sleep tight baby girl x"
Speaking to The ECHO on Sunday, Kerry said: "She just got spooked by a child's motorised car. She is the baby of the household and is not just a dog at all.
"Heidi was bought for my son who had surgery seven days ago and he is a bit frantic as he can't do much to help. We have had Network Rail, British Transport Police, and Merseyside Police up and down the tracks all day."
Comments have flooded in with messages of support for Kerry and her family.
Natalie Bartley said: "Oh I’m so sorry. This is absolutely devastating xxxx"
Vicky Se said: "I am absolutely devastated for the loss of your beautiful Heidi truly heartbreaking. Sending lots of love."
Samantha Bonney said: "So sorry for you loss. We are all devastated with you. Heidi, you looked like a very special little lady who was so loved."
Liisaa Jaacobbss said: "Awwww I’m so sorry to hear this. I’ve been checking all day for updates. The poor family. RIP Heidi."
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