Plans for Paul O’Grady’s send-off in his home town are revealed as dogs set to line streets in tribute to animal lover

PLANS for Paul O’Grady’s send-off in his home town have been revealed, with dogs set to line the street.

The much-loved entertainer who was born in Birkenhead is being given a “community funeral” in the Merseyside town and a private ceremony is planned near his home in Kent.

Comedy legend Paul, a well-known dog lover, died suddenly from cardiac arrhythmia at the age of 67 last month.

From 2pm to 4pm on the day of the funeral, fans of the star are invited to gather along Grange Road and Woodchurch Road in the town with their pets.

The event, being organised by life-long fan Janine Ferguson, also has plans to raise funds for animal charities.

As well as his high-profile TV work, Paul was an ambassador for Battersea Dogs Home and before his death lived just three miles from Port Lympne Safari Park in Adlington, Kent.

Paul was also a big supporter of the nature reserve and often judged animal competitions there.

The park is hosting a private event for close loved ones after his funeral on Thursday.

Janine told the Wirral Globe: “I’m a great lover of Paul O’Grady and I was absolutely traumatised when I heard that he had passed. It really upset me, I think it did everyone… It was devastating to hear because he was so loved by everyone.”

She said she hoped people would “line the streets with their families and bring their dogs as a sign of respect.”

Janine added: “I’ve asked for all local rescue dogs and cats’ homes to attend as well so we can collect donations from everyone there.

“It only started off as a small idea but it has gone absolutely mad. I’ve been overwhelmed by the positive reaction and the feedback to it.

“Birkenhead was Paul’s home so I hope we can give it our very best to make his memory an extremely special day.”

She also said she had asked people to bring books of condolence that can be signed and later sent to Battersea Dogs Home so they can be passed on to Paul’s family.

Paul’s husband Andre Portasio has also shared details about the private funeral on a local Facebook page today.

Andre said in his post: “I want to take a moment to express my deepest gratitude for the overwhelming outpouring of support and love I have received since the passing of our beloved Paul O’Grady.

“Your kind messages, beautiful flowers, and thoughtful texts of condolences have brought me comfort and solace during this difficult time.

“I’m incredibly grateful for the support and love I have received from our community, and we want to thank each and every one of you for your kindness and generosity.

“As a mark of respect and as Paul would have wanted, we will be holding a private funeral on Thursday, 20th April 2023.

“This information has not been made public, but I wanted to share it with local residents.

“While the funeral will be a private ceremony, as many of you know, Paul cared a lot about his local community.

“We have therefore requested that the funeral procession passes through Aldington before heading to the church, as a way of marking Paul’s affection for the area.

“We would therefore like to invite all locals to join us in paying our respects to Paul in Aldington Village between 14:10 – 14:45 on Thursday.

“In order to avoid road congestion and public disorder, we kindly ask all residents to treat this invitation personally and if attending to stand on either Roman Road, Forge Hill, or New Road Hill so to respect the villagers and the local area.

“Please note for public safety Church Road as well as Knoll Hill will be closed on the day of the procession.

“We kindly ask everyone to respect the family’s wishes and maintain social distancing throughout the event.

“Thank you for your understanding and support during this difficult time.”

Port Lympne Safari Park, which covers 600 acres and is home to more than 900 rare and endangered animals, paid tribute to Paul following his death.

In a message on its Instagram page, the park said: “We are deeply saddened to hear about the passing of Paul O’Grady – a local supporter of Port Lympne and the work we do.

“We were incredibly grateful to have him visit us.”