Strictly Come Dancing star Katya Jones has been flooded with support as she paid a heartbreaking tribute after suffering a loss with her co-star ex-husband. The professional dancer and her former husband, fellow pro Neil Jones, have shared their devastation following the death of one of their dogs, Crumble.
Background
Fans of the BBC One dance show will already be aware that Neil and Katya were once in a relationship. The two professional dancers married in August 2013, but after six years of marriage, in August 2019, they announced their separation. However, the former couple have remained on good terms, continuing to work and perform together on Strictly, and they have also continued to share ownership of their pet dogs, Chorizo and Crumble. An Instagram page for the pups reads: "Crumble -Chi x shit x poo SHE/HER, Chorizo (adopted) Chihuahua mix HE/HIS, parents @mr_njonesofficial and @katyajones."
Neil's Announcement
It was last weekend that Neil confirmed the devastating death of Crumble. Alongside pictures of the adorable pooch, he shared: "Today we said goodbye to Crumble. She may have been small, but she had the biggest personality and brought so much joy to everyone who knew her. She loved cuddles, belly rubs, and being close to the people she loved." He added: "She will be missed more than words can say, but we find comfort in knowing she is finally at peace and no longer in pain. Sleep tight, Crumble."
Katya's Tribute
Now, Katya has shared her own tear-jerking message as she reflected on the life she got to share with her beloved pet pooch. Alongside pictures of Crumble, she lovingly wrote on Instagram: "Hello, my gorgeous girl. The pain I feel is the price worth paying for the love you gave me and the love I felt for you. I want to thank you for it. Thank you for being the most impactful silent supporter. I know how tough these last months have been for you. Thank you for fighting so hard to stay with us for as long as you could. Being with you reminded me of the unconditional love that exists. You reminded me to stay grounded, responsible and kind."
She continued: "Your mummies and your little brother will miss your cuddles, your sassy walks, and your bossy behaviour. Your 'I know my worth' attitude. Demanding, yet the most caring personality. We will miss your sweet little face and those big eyes that looked so deeply into one's soul."
She added: "I know you felt how loved you were when we held you in our arms as you fell asleep forever, even though our hearts were breaking… You are the most perfect creature to have ever trotted this earth. @thesashalatoya @aggypure, we will never be the same… But we know our girl is the sassiest boss queen up there. 12 June will forever be Crumble day."
Support from Colleagues
And the post was quickly flooded with messages. Strictly co-star Gorka Marquez said: "Sending love," while Janette Manrara commented: "June 12th we shall always celebrate her." Karen Hauer replied: "Oh darling. I'm so so sorry .. she was a precious little baby who we all loved." Joanne Clifton also shared: "So unbelievably sad … Little Crumble … it's heartbreaking. She was so loved." @clairemcdermont posted: "So sorry for the loss of your beautiful little girl." @sassykirkham wrote: "Awh Katya, so sorry, sending you all the love in the world." @rhiannon_dv added: "I am so sorry for your loss Katya. I hope you can take comfort in the fact she is no longer in pain and from all your lovely memories with her. Sending you love and hugs."
