Famous Cornwall beach lifesaving dog dies

Tributes have been paid to a famous lifesaving dog in Cornwall that has died.

Bilbo, a 14-stone Newfoundland, passed away this week, his owner Steve Jamieson said.

The dog became famous helping his owner, a former lifeguard, patrol the popular Sennen Cove on the back of a quad bike.

Mr Jamieson, who is known as JMo, credited Bilbo with helping to save three lives at the beach.

But in 2008 Bilbo was banned after the RNLI took over the running of the beach from the local council.

After an outcry, the dog was given a new role in promoting beach safety and was able to visit twice a week.

Mr Jamieson posted a message on Facebook, which said: "Just to let you know that my lovely, lovely Bilbo/Best Friend/Saviour, slipped his moorings late this afternoon and has sailed off without me.

"RIP Bilbo, Gwynver supreme 2003-2015."

People who met Bilbo have paid tribute to him on social media - with one man calling for a statue to be erected in the dog's honour.

Gray Cale wrote: "A statue of Bilbo would be fitting."

Allan Moore wrote: "I met him at the Eden Project once and he was a beautiful, gentle giant of a dog."

Celia Dean Williams wrote: "So sad. Rest in peace, Bilbo, you will be missed."

Rosemary Polglase said: "Bilbo was such a well-loved dog and such a canine hero. Sympathies to Jamie, who will miss him greatly.

"I was so pleased to have had my photograph taken with him when he came to one of our meetings of the Porthleven Wives Club."

An RNLI spokeswoman said: "Our condolences go to Steve Jamieson on the news that his dog Bilbo has sadly passed away.

"Bilbo and Steve provided a valuable contribution to lifesaving in west Cornwall by teaching local schoolchildren essential beach safety skills."

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