Paul O’Grady’s funeral sees a guard of honour by dogs from Battersea Dogs & Cats Home

The funeral took place today.

Paul O'Grady's funeral saw a guard of honour at the service consisting solely of dogs from the Battersea Dogs & Cats Home. The late comedian and presenter died "unexpectedly but peacefully" at his home on March 28th at the age of 67. Paul's funeral took place earlier on Thursday in Aldington in Kent, with a number of dogs sending a special tribute to the late star, recognising his work done with the rescue centre. Paul rehomed five dogs during his time filming his series Paul O'Grady: For The Love Of Dogs and more than £270,000 has been raised for the charity since his passing. Hundreds of mourners arrived at the funeral with their dogs as the procession passed, with Paul's husband Andre Portasio passing on a carriage drawn by two black horses with one of the couple's dogs. The Salvation Army played at the funeral, playing Tomorrow from Annie as Paul was starring in the show at the time of his death. Paul's daughter Sharyn with a young man as he held Lily Savage's wig. Andre Portasio said in a statement that he died "unexpectedly but peacefully" when announcing the sad news that Paul had passed. He said: "It is with great sadness that I inform you that Paul has passed away unexpectedly but peacefully yesterday evening. "He will be greatly missed by his loved ones, friends, family, animals, and all those who enjoyed his humor, wit, and compassion. "I know that he would want me to thank you for all the love you have shown him over the years. "We ask, at this difficult time, that whilst you celebrate his life you also respect our privacy as we come to terms with this loss."

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