A tribute fund set up in honour of the late Paul O'Grady is set to hit £100,000 this weekend.
Paul O'Grady was a passionate supporter of Battersea Dogs and Cats home
The popular presenter died suddenly at the age of 67 on Tuesday (28.03.23) and donations being made to his beloved Battersea Dogs and Cats home in his name have already reached over £90,000, with the animal centre - which featured in the comic's 'For the Love of Dogs' TV show - "overwhelmed and touched" by the show of support.
Chief Executive Peter Laurie told the Daily Mirror newspaper that the charity had received thousands of letters, calls, emails and messages of support, and all the money donated will go towards the running of the animal rescue centre.
And the charity boss suggested the organisation will be looking at ways to permanently honour Paul, whose 11th and final series about Battersea will air later this month.
He said: “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.”
Paul adopted several of his own dogs from Battersea and previously admitted working with the facility was one of the "nicest jobs" he's ever had.
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. I’m coming back. They can’t get rid of me.
“Once I became really involved, I’d go home and worry about the dogs. I’d be ringing friends saying, ‘I’ve found a lovely dog for you’. The aim of the game for me became to re-home these dogs.
“I’d like to see this place empty. All go off to nice homes. Hopefully, after watching the programmes, that what’s going to happen.”
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