Yahoo News Paul O'Grady's funeral: Fans and their dogs line streets ahead of service
The TV star died in March at the age of 67
Paul O’Grady fans – and their dogs – lined the streets in the village where he lived ahead of his funeral.
The TV star, who found fame as drag queen alter ego Lily Savage, was laid to rest on Thursday after he died suddenly in March at the age of 67.
Hours before the service, people started flocking to Aldington, Kent, where O’Grady had lived for more than 20 years.
Read more: Paul O'Grady died in bed beside husband, says close friend Linda Thorson
Photos showed mourners perched outside the Walnut Tree Inn pub, many with dogs in tow in a nod to the late star’s love for them.
Landlady Karen Barrett told PA that O’Grady had been a regular and was “lovely”.
“He was just lovely and if you didn’t get to meet him, then you missed out on life," she said.
"You really did, he was just great.”
Several fans had made banners paying tribute to the star, who was well known for his TV show For The Love Of Dogs.
Some were on display as the coffin was taken from O’Grady’s home to St Rumwold’s Church in nearby Bonnington in the early afternoon.
There was also a bake sale being held, with the proceeds going to Battersea Dogs & Cats Home.
Animal-lover O'Grady was a big supporter of the organisation and many years ago he became an ambassador.
His private service was set to feature a guard of honour with dogs from the home.
Last month, the late star's close friend Linda Thorson revealed that he had passed away in bed next to his husband Andre Portasio.
After O’Grady’s death, Portasio shared the couple’s last holiday photo on Instagram.
He told fans: “In time I hope to write to everyone individually and thank you for all posts, messages, phone calls, emails, cards and flowers of support.
"I much appreciate you all taking the time to reach out.
Read more: My night out with Lily Savage: Remembering the brilliance of Paul O’Grady
"I’m so very touched and I’m sure Paul would be too!”
Additional reporting from PA.
Watch: Paul O'Grady's funeral to feature guard of honour by dogs from his beloved Battersea rescue centre
