Paul O'Grady dies: Suffolk dog rescue centres pay tribute

O'Grady, who presented the For the Love of Dogs documentary for nine seasons, died unexpectedly but peacefully” on Tuesday evening at the age of 67.

The RSPCA subsequently paid tribute to the TV star, saying his "tireless campaigning" inspired "countless families to re-home rescue pets and give them a second chance of happiness".

Dog treats and flowers have been laid in tribute to O’Grady outside the gates to his farm in Adlington, Kent.

O'Grady with Camilla, the Queen Consort (Image: PA)

Sue Bruce, of the Suffolk Greyhound Trust, in Capel St Mary, praised the star after his death was announced in the early hours of Wednesday.

She said: "The thing about Paul was that he had such widespread appeal and didn't differentiate between breeds. We only do greyhounds here.

"Paul was a really good advocate, particularly for those dogs that needed to be rehomed.

"I think the fact that he used his fame and celebrity for the cause was wonderful. It's sad that he's died."

Gemma Walpole, branch manager of the RSPCA's Suffolk Central division, added: "Everyone here was deeply saddened to hear of his passing.

Gemma Walpole, of the RSPCA's Suffolk Central branch (Image: Gemma Walpole)

"He did a huge amount for the benefit of rescue dogs, and also just to bring attention to the cause.

"He will be a great loss.

"Paul had an open heart to any dog, even those that needed a bit more love and attention."

Fellow TV star Omid Djalili, who lives in Suffolk, also posted a tribute on social media, saying O'Grady "truly elevated the very atmosphere in which he moved".

Djalili added: "I don’t think I’ve ever been so immediately enamoured with a personality on a first meeting.

"God rest his mighty soul."