Alison Hammond is set to replace Paul O'Grady on 'For The Love Of Dogs'.

Alison Hammond to present For The Love Of Dogs

Alison Hammond to present For The Love Of Dogs

'This Morning' and 'Great British Bake Off' presenter Alison, 48, is the frontrunner to present the show, which Paul hosted for 11 years until his death in March last year.

A source told The Mirror: "Paul is obviously irreplaceable but they believe that not only does Alison bring some of Paul’s trademark self-deprecating humour to proceedings, but that she can also make it her own, just as Paul did.

"Alison would be a great signing... and as her ever-expanding portfolio of shows demonstrates, capable of putting her hand to anything."

Comedian Ricky Gervais, 62, TV and radio presenter Amanda Holden, 52, and actor Martin Clunes, 62, have all been considered for the role.

Paul had a deep connection with the Battersea Dogs and Cats Home, where the documentary series is filmed, adopting mongrels Arfur and Nancy, shih-tzu Boycie, chihuahua/Jack Russell cross Eddie and a dachshund called Sausage.

Speaking in 2012, he said: "Hand on heart, this has been one of the nicest jobs I’ve ever had. Battersea is a magical place. People think it’s all doom and gloom but it’s not, it’s such a happy place. I’ve had a ball. It’s such an enriching place to work."

Chief executive Peter Laurie previously revealed the Dogs and Cats Home was considering a permanent tribute to Paul, 67, who died “unexpectedly but peacefully” on March 28, 2023.

He said last year: "We will be looking to find a suitably fitting way to remember the profound impact Paul had at Battersea and the rescue animal sector – something that will support the animals Paul loved so much, and that would make him proud."

Tagged in