A HEARTBROKEN teenager's loving tennis balls tribute in memory of her best friend

has touched the hearts of the dog owners locally and across the globe.

Caitlin McCarthy and her family lost their lovely dog, Elliot, last month. The labrador, who would have been 12 this year, passed away peacefully at home with his family around him.

The adored pet had been at Caitlin's side since she was three and he was a 10-week-old pup. He was also treasured by her sister Freya, 12 and the girls' parents Jackie and Simon, of Barrow Island.

Caitlin came up with the touching idea to create a tribute to Elliot involving his favourite thing, tennis balls. For 12 years the family had walked along Biggar Bank, on Walney, and along the beach front and Elliot would take his tennis ball. The day before he died, Elliot's family helped him to the beach for a final time.

The sisters, both Walney School students, placed a box of tennis balls on the bank, with a photo of Elliot and the following words: "In loving memory of Elliot. He LOVED tennis balls! Please take a tennis ball for your dog to play with! Don't forget to take a few moments to hug your dog and tell them how much you love them.

"If you're able to get a photo of your dog with one of Ell's tennis balls please post it on Facebook and Instagram and tag, Facebook: Simon N Jackie McCarthy , Instagram: @elliotstennisballs "

Caitlin also posted the tribute on social media and the response has been amazing, with people taking a ball for their dogs and sharing their photos. There has also been messages of support from people in the community, around the UK and overseas.

Caitlin said: "I couldn't be any happier with the outcome of this! It means so much that so many dogs had fun with the tennis balls we put on the beach in memory of Ell. Thank you all for the lovely comments, the pooch pictures and kind words from the lovely people that saw Elliot's tennis ball box. I miss my best friend."

Her proud mum Jackie, told The Mail: "I can't believe this has travelled so far. We have had messages from around the world, New Zealand, Spain and Lithuania are some. It is absolutely amazing that this has happened from just a little box of tennis balls at Walney beach.

"Caitlin was worried that no one would take a ball, so she is utterly astounded by all the lovely messages and photos. She cried happy tears.

"We walked that stretch with Elliot everyday for 12 years so it was the natural place for the box to go. Elliot was such a special dog."