Casualty fans break down in tears as BBC medical drama kills off beloved character

CASUALTY fans were left heartbroken as a beloved character was killed off tonight.

Long-standing character Dylan Keogh (William Beck) found himself in a nightmare, involving his beloved dog Dervla.

A vet informed Dylan that Dervla's cancer had spread and suggested that Dylan begin arrangements to make her comfortable.

During the earlier appointment, Dylan told the vet: "She's been very lethargic. Been off her food.

"She hasn't been to the loo this morning and very laboured breathing."

After informing Dylan that his dog was "very sick", she added: "We've always said there'd come a point where we'd have to stop treatment and make her comfortable."

Suggesting that he sign a "consent form", she added: "I know it's hard, but as a doctor I'm sure you understand."

Dylan replied: "As a doctor, I would try everything that I could for my patient until the very end.

";I cannot sign that until I know you have done everything that you can."

Later on, Dylan received the devastating phone call while at work - asking if he could be there for Dervla.

He tearfully told his canine friend: "You've been the best friend I've ever had.

"I hope I've given you a good life."

Distraught fans took to social media as they watched the emotional scenes.

One shared: “Dervla's death is absolutely heartbreaking.”

Another added: "Well that was the saddest casualty theres been in a while. Dylan having to put Dervla to sleep."

While a third shared: "Dylan and Dervla will forever be the best duo #Casualty."

A fellow viewer penned: "Charlie Fairhead leaving broke me but nothing like tonight with Dylan and Dervla #Casualty."

The episode also featured a heartbreaking shot of Dylan walking away holding Dervla's leash.

Casualty airs on BBC and is available to watch on iPlayer.