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Walnut the whippet recently captured hearts and minds when his owner, Mark Woods, posted a moving open invitation for people to join them on Walnut's walk today.

The picturesque stretch of sand on Porth Beach, in Newquay, has long been a favourite spot for the Whippet.

However, what made today's walk different - and heartbreaking - was the fact it was Walnut's final walk.

After 18 happy years, it became apparent to Mark that Walnut's increasingly frail state and health was only getting worse.

The never-easy decision to have him put to sleep was eventually made, and in a deeply moving Facebook post , Mark invited dog owners, dog lovers, friends and the public in general to make their last walk special.

And it certainly was a walk to remember.

(Image: Neil Hope / SWNS)

The skies may have been cloudy and grey, but the huge turn out - canine and human alike - to Mark's post was most definitely uplifting.

Hundreds of people and their dogs joined Walnut and Mark at 9.30am this morning, the Plymouth Herald reported.

(Image: Neil Hope / SWNS)

As the pictures show, it was a real heartwarming community event.

In these, his final days, Walnut's owners have also been treating him to some of his favourite delicacies - custard creams and burgers.

(Image: Neil Hope / SWNS)

Mark's original post read:

"Sadly I am having to have Walnut euthanised on Saturday 12th November and so we will be having a last walk together on his beloved Porth Beach at 9.30am."

"I would love it if dog lovers/owners and friends would join us for a celebration of Walnut on his favourite Porth Beach.

(Image: Neil Hope / SWNS)

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"He has had an incredible life and having reached the grand age of 18 is ready for his final sleep. Hope to see you on Saturday."

Walnut's final walk even moved Eammon Holmes to tears earlier this week on This Morning.

(Image: Neil Hope / SWNS)

It is believed Walnut will be put to sleep later today.

Tributes have also poured in across various social media channels.

Rest in peace, Walnut. 126 years in dog years is not too bad an innings.

(Image: Neil Hope / SWNS)