Mortimer and Whitehouse: Gone Fishing’s breakout star Ted has died aged 15.

The BBC announced that the much-loved canine, who has spent the last six years tagging along with Bob Mortimer and Paul Whitehouse on their fishing adventures, died – and will make his final appearance in the upcoming series.

Bob Mortimer paid tribute to Ted, saying: “So very, very sad. Lovely Ted, the best companion and the greatest little chum. Going to miss him so much.. and away boss.”

Whitehouse added: “Bye bye Ted old friend. He wasn’t a dog, he was a species all of his own. He’s gone to the great briefcase emporium in the sky. We will really miss you mate.”

More to come.