Sussex charities have paid tribute to TV personality and comedian Paul O’Grady, who has died at the age of 67.

The broadcaster died “unexpectedly but peacefully” yesterday evening, his husband Andrew Portasio said.

Paul first rose to prominence as his drag queen persona Lily Savage in the 1980s and 1990s before going on to host a self-titled daytime chat show as well as Blind Date.

Most recently, his love of animals was apparent through charity work and his multi-award-winning TV show For The Love Of Dogs.

Staff at Clymping Dog Sanctuary in Arundel said they were “so sad” to learn of his death.

A charity spokesman said: “Everyone at Clymping loved Paul for his work on TV and theatre but we loved him the most for using his fame for good to help raise the profile of rescue dogs and rehome so many beautiful pooches over the years.

“He will be missed by so many.”

Chris Sherwood, chief executive of the RSPCA which has centres in Brighton and near Chichester, said: “Paul O’Grady’s love for animals and the incredible way he told their stories inspired countless families to re-home rescue pets and give them a second chance at happiness.

“His tireless campaigning saw Paul recognised with an RSPCA Animal Hero Award for his outstanding contribution to animal welfare, while he once adopted a little lamb Winston from us who had been rescued from a wheelie bin.

“The thoughts of all at the RSPCA are with his loved ones and our friends at Battersea at this difficult time.”

The Argus: Paul rehomed Winston the lamb after he was dumped in a wheelie bin in 2011Paul rehomed Winston the lamb after he was dumped in a wheelie bin in 2011 (Image: RSPCA/PA)

Paul has been praised for his support of LGBTQ+ rights and the fight against HIV and Aids.

The Sussex Beacon, a Brighton-based charity that specialises in care and support for people living with HIV, recalled how Paul had supported the charity.

It said: “We’re very much saddened to hear the news of Paul O’Grady’s untimely passing.

“Having supported The Sussex Beacon in the past, we know Paul cared greatly about people living with and affected by HIV. His charity fundraisers were particularly notable.

“He will be greatly missed.”

Tributes have flooded in for Paul, including from the Queen Consort, who said he had provided “lots of laughter and many waggy-tailed memories”.