Escape to the Country viewers break down in tears during tribute to Jonnie Irwin

VIEWERS watching Escape to the Country today were left emotional as the programme paid tributed to Jonnie Irwin.

The beloved presenter tragically passed away a few days ago after a painful battle with lung cancer.

2

2

He was diagnosed with the disease in 2020, and by 2022 it had spread to his brain.

The BBC decided to air a special episode of Escape to the Country that was filmed before his death during the show's slot today to honour his memory.

The telly legend could be seen showing potential homeowners around properties in Somerset where they were considering moving to escape the bustle of city life.

At the end of the episode the Beeb played a montage of Jonnie as a tribute to him.

Heartbroken fans flocked to social media to share how much it meant to see him on screen again.

One person gratefully wrote: "Thank you for showing such a wonderful tribute to Jonnie Irwin this morning. He and his legacy will never be forgotten."

Another agreed: "The last episode of Escape to the Country that Jonnie filmed is being aired on BBC1 at 3pm today, in tribute to him.It will be a very difficult watch, but is a lovely thing to do by the channel."

A third cried: "A very sad episode, he carried on very professionally to the end, very very sad R.I.P. #JonnieIrwin"

A fourth shared: "Sobbing at the end of today’s episode of #escapetothecountry in memory of #jonnieirwin."

Someone else sadly noted that he didn't sound like himself in the segment, saying: "Watching Escape to the Country with Jonnie Irwin who is obviously unwell. Very thin and sounded strained. Really sad."