Tess Daly reveals she's 'heartbroken' after death of family dog in tragic accident

Tess Daly has revealed she and her family are going through a very “emotional” time after they suffered a devastating loss recently.

The Strictly Come Dancing star has been dealing with the tragic loss of her family dog, which was killed in an awful accident involving Tess.

She tragically killed the family dog, a Maltese Shih Tzu named Minnie, after she mistakenly ran over it when she was returning home in her car last month.

Minnie had reportedly bolted out of the house, after builders at Tess’ £3.5million Buckinghamshire mansion left the front door open.

But unaware Minnie had got out, Tess admits she did not have enough time to react as the beloved dog suddenly ran in front of her front wheels.

See a picture of Tess' dog Minnie HERE.

Revealing how the incident has affected her, the 49-year-old told The Sun on Sunday,“I’m devastated by this terrible accident,

“It’s a dog owner’s worst nightmare. It has had a huge effect on the whole family and we are heartbroken at losing Minnie.

“This has, and continues to be, a very emotional time for us all.”

Tess Daly shared Minnie with husband Vernon Kay, 44, and their children Phoebe, 14, and Amber, 9.

The tragic accident occurred last month, just days before the family were due to fly to the Maldives to celebrate Tess’ upcoming 50th birthday.

According to reports, they were considering postponing the trip but decided to go ahead and use it as an opportunity to cheer up their daughters.

The family, who also have a four-year-old Chihuahua called Blue, returned from the two-week break on Friday.

A source alleged that Tess is deeply saddened by the traumatic event, explaining, “Tess had been out for the morning and as she drove back in and up the driveway she was too high up in her 4x4 to see Minnie suddenly bolt out. It all happened in a flash and there was absolutely nothing she could do.

“Minnie was like another child to Tess and Vernon and to lose a member of the family in such a tragic, hideous way is understandably devastating.”

It is understood the family held a memorial for Minnie at their home before burying her.