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Daily Mirror
Daily Mirror
Entertainment
Zoe Delaney

Paul O'Grady fans set for tears as he cuddles dogs in final TV scenes in last ever series

Paul O'Grady's final TV appearance will air on ITV this evening, with the late star appearing in a new series of For The Love Of Dogs.

Filmed at Battersea Dogs and Cats Home shortly before Paul's sudden and unexpected death last month, the opening episode of the 11th and final series will see the much-loved entertainer head over heels with a gorgeous Newfoundland who needs major life changing surgery on her back legs.

ITV viewers will also see animal lover Paul meet a lab cross who’s totally obsessed with water and keeps flooding her kennel, and helps a terrified bichon frise, who was found wandering around a forest, become less scared of the world.

Paul's husband Andre Portasio announced the star's 'unexpected but peaceful death' on March, with tributes from Paul's famous friends and fans flooding in throughout the day.

The Lily Savage star's death sparked a wave of donations for his beloved animal centre - with Battersea Dogs & Cats Home saying they were "overwhelmed and touched" by the reaction of the public after the TV star's death.

Chief Executive Peter Laurie said the charity – which featured in the comic’s ITV show – had received countless letters, calls, emails and messages of support.

A "tribute fund" in memory of the star, who passed away aged 67, smashed through the £100,000 barrier just days on from the star's tragic death.

All the money donated will go towards the running of the much-loved charity, which has featured in 10 series of For The Love of Dogs.

Speaking to the Mirror, Mr Laurie also hinted the home was considering a permanent tribute to the star.

Paul is seen appearing to be in good spirits in the final series of his beloved show (ITV)

He said: "We will be looking to find a suitably fitting way to remember the profound impact Paul had at Battersea and the rescue animal sector – something that will support the animals Paul loved so much, and that would make him proud."

Paul often spoke of his love for the show, and the home.

"Hand on heart. This has been one of the nicest jobs I’ve ever had," the late star said in 2012.

Paul was a big animal lover (ITV)

"Battersea is a magical place. People think it’s all doom and gloom but it’s not, it’s such a happy place. I’ve had a ball. It’s such an enriching place to work. I’m coming back. They can’t get rid of me.

"Once I became really involved, I’d go home and worry about the dogs. I’d be ringing friends saying, ‘I’ve found a lovely dog for you’. The aim of the game for me became to re-home these dogs.

"I’d like to see this place empty. All go off to nice homes. Hopefully, after watching the programmes, that what’s going to happen."

The final series of For The Love of Dogs is sure to make fans emotional this evening (ITV)

Announcing the star's death last month, Paul's husband Andre Portasio said: "It is with great sadness that I inform you that Paul has passed away unexpectedly but peacefully yesterday evening.

"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.

"He will be greatly missed by his loved ones, friends, family, animals and all those who enjoyed his humour, wit and compassion.

"I know that he would want me to thank you for all the love you have shown him over the years."

Paul is survived by his husband Andre, daughter Sharon and grandson Abel.

Paul O'Grady: For the Love of Dogs is on tonight at 8.30pm on ITV1 and ITVX

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