Oldham's animal lovers pay tribute to Paul O'Grady

Paul O'Grady has died aged 67

Oldhamers have paid tribute to presenter and comedian Paul O'Grady who has died aged 67.

The radio and TV star died "unexpectedly but peacefully" on Tuesday evening, his husband announced online.

Camilla, the Queen Consort also added her voice to the tributes, saying she is "deeply saddened" by the news.

Carol Dransfield posted on Facebook to say O'Grady was "a lovely person" and "We are all going to miss him".

Mo Hendry added that the performer was "a lovely man, so caring.  Going to be greatly missed"

Another Facebooker, Shirley Bamford said she was heartbroken at the news "I really love Paul he was such a genuine man.  Paul this family are going to miss you much RIP Paul ,condolences to his husband, daughter and grandchildren".

Patricia Hart said: "It’s such a shame.  He was so good and caring will be sadly missed.Thoughts and prayers go out to his family and all his four legged friends.  Rest in Peace Paul".  Meanwhile, Danielle Preston said O'Grady was "a great entertainer with a huge heart".

Oldham West and Royton MP paid tribute to the presenter online: "Very sorry to hear that Paul O’Grady has passed away. A career which brought him into contact with millions with his trade mark wit and brilliance. His love of animals and especially dogs was something of joy."

Chris Sherwood, chief executive of the RSPCA, said: "Paul O'Grady's love for animals and the incredible way he told their stories inspired countless families to re-home rescue pets and give them a second chance of happiness.

"His tireless campaigning saw Paul recognised with an RSPCA Animal Hero Award for his outstanding contribution to animal welfare, while he once adopted a little lamb Winston from us who had been rescued from a wheelie bin.

"The thoughts of all at the RSPCA are with his loved ones and our friends at Battersea at this difficult and sad time."

O'Grady was the regular presenter of "For The Love of Dogs" on television, which featured stories from Battersea Dogs and Cats Home, of which he was a patron.

Do you have a story for us? Want to tell us about something going on in and around Oldham? Let us know by emailing news@oldham-chronicle.co.uk , calling our Oldham-based newsroom on 0161 633 2121 , tweeting us @oldhamchronicle or messaging us through our Facebook page. All contact will be treated in confidence.