Baldrick star's 'agony' over death of rescue dog

Sir Tony Robinson with his rescue dog Holly Berry at the RSPCA Derby shelter

TV star Sir Tony Robinson has spoken of his "agony" over the death of his beloved rescue dog.

He and his wife Louise adopted Holly Berry from the RSPCA Derby shelter, in Abbey Street in the city, during lockdown in 2020.

The actor - known to million as hapless Baldrick in the TV comedy Blackadder - went on to become Patron of the charity.

Sir Tony said he wasn't considering getting another dog just yet, but hinted he would ultimately take on another rescue animal from Derby.

Holly Berry is said to have been in a "terrible state" when she was rescued by an RSPCA inspector in 2019

Sir Tony said: "We've lost her, which is very sad. We always knew she wouldn't last for too long. She'd been really poorly.

"It's always agony when you lose an animal but at least we have the knowledge she was able to live a healthy life for her final few years."

In a tribute on its website, RSPCA Derby said: "We are very sad to share the news Holly Berry died after complications with diabetes.

"We are so grateful that the time she had with the Robinsons was filled with love, the best care and, of course, lots of fun.

"Our heartfelt condolences go to Tony and Louise, and we shall never forget Holly Berry."

The Westie terrier was rescued by an RSPCA inspector just before Christmas 2019 and was said to be in a "terrible state".

Sir Tony said he was still involved in fundraising efforts for the RSPCA Derby charity, which is an independently-run rescue shelter.

He added: "I've not been up to Abbey Street for a while, but I will certainly be back before the end of the year.

"We've not got a new dog yet, I know we'll get another one and I'm pretty sure where it's going to come from. I suspect when the summer's over that will be the time."

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