Alan Titchmarsh ITV Love Your Garden viewers left heartbroken over tragic news

ITV1 audiences were deeply moved by an episode of Alan Titchmarsh's Love Your Garden, where a young teen with terminal cancer shared his dream for a 'bucket list' garden before viewers learnt of his heartbreaking passing. The programme, which aired on ITV1, had Alan introduce us to ‘an incredible young man’, 15-year-old Harri Torr from Hull who courageously battled terminal osteosarcoma cancer.

Harri had previously undergone leg amputation due to cancer, and just two weeks after celebrating being cancer-free, he was given the dire news that his cancer had spread.

Alan Titchmarsh emotionally narrated: "Today I'm in East Yorkshire in the city of Hull to meet an incredible young man. He's only 15 but he's an amazing example to us all."

Erika, Harri’s mother, recounted how they had been warned about the potential loss of Harri's leg and the harsh return of the cancer after a period of remission. She explained: "They told us we don't think his leg will be saveable. He got the all clear and rang the bell, but two weeks later the cancer had spread."

When asked about his expected time left, Harri conveyed the devastating prognosis: "They say between three and 12 months," reports the Express.

Alan relayed to viewers: "Harri has created a bucket list and on it is something very special. He wants a garden to spend 'whatever time he's got left' with his mum."

This poignant moment included Harri expressing his concerns: "I was more worried about my family than myself and what they would have to come to terms with."

He also imparted sage advice about life and mortality: "It's about making the most of life, even if you have a condition or cancer, you have to live everyday like you're dying."

"That's how you have to live your life." Alan embarked on a project to create a wildlife-friendly pond for Harri, who expressed his desire for a natural space.

Frances Tophill then enlisted the help of a professional graffiti artist to give Harri's shed a modern, teen-friendly makeover, which included an outdoor cinema and a pizza oven area.

Alan also created a cosy spot for Harri and his mum Erika to enjoy together, complete with a bench, a variety of 'exquisitely perfumed' flowers and a tree for Harri to plant - fulfilling one of his cancer bucket list wishes. Despite the challenging weather conditions in Hull, Alan and his team managed to complete the project.

He said: "Despite the weather in Hull being most unkind, me and my soggy team have got the job done. I think Harri and Erika are gonna be well chuffed.

"It's a bucket list busting delight. Places to celebrate life and make memories. Restful nooks for moments of reflection. From an exciting natural landscape.

"Last but not least, wrapped in a leafy glade is Frances' open air movie hub, awaiting its first moonlit premiere."

Upon seeing the transformed garden, Harri was left speechless, saying: "Wow. It looks like someone else's garden. It's magic! It's not slippery either. That's fantastic. I'm speechless really. It's going to make a massive difference.

"This is going to be kind of an escape area for me, it's like I'm somewhere else. Thank you very much, thank you."

In a sombre announcement by ITV at the close of the episode, audiences were informed: "And we're very sad to say that since this programme was made, teenager Harri has passed away."

The programme originally aired on February 25, 2020, featuring Harrison who spoke candidly about his worries for his loved ones after receiving a terminal prognosis. This episode was broadcast again on August 22, 2023, marking the first time it had been shown since the heartbreaking news of Harri's passing in March 2020.

Viewers were touched by the recollection of the boy who had discussed his 'bucket list' garden during his final 12 months. @teenamassam tweeted her response: "Watching #loveyourgarden didn't realise it was going to be a repeat. I remember this one, he's such a brave lad..." accompanied by a crying emoji.

Similar sentiments were echoed by @ashercoleman, who expressed admiration for Harri, stating: "What a remarkable lad Harri was. I am in awe of people like him." @kr28840 also shared their feelings, saying: "didn't see this first time round but already it's very moving."