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Liverpool Echo
Liverpool Echo
National
Edward Barnes

Paul O'Grady's birthplace plans 'fitting celebration' of star's life

Wirral Council said plans are already underway for a "fitting celebration” of Paul O’Grady’s life.

News of the sudden death of the Birkenhead-born TV star has shocked the nation. The comic's death was confirmed yesterday at the age of 67.

Born at St Catherine’s Hospital in Tranmere and the youngest of three, Paul later became known for his drag persona Lily Savage, who Paul once described as “a creature that was more cartoon than human.”

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In his career, Paul went on to host The Paul O'Grady Show, Blind Date and Blankety Blank, as well as ITV's multi-award-winning For The Love Of Dogs. He also hosted ITV celebrity game show, Paul O'Grady's Saturday Night Line Up.

Since his death, celebrities, politicians and even royalty have paid tribute.

After the devastating news, Wirral Council posted on social media: “Wirral has lost one of its most iconic figures today with the passing of Paul O’Grady.

“From Birkenhead’s self-proclaimed ‘Blonde Bombsite’ to bona-fide national treasure, Paul found fame as Lily Savage. He was one of the UK’s most-loved drag acts and a champion of LGBT+ rights.

“As Paul O’Grady he become a household name; a much-loved star of TV and radio and recently returned to the stage as Miss Hannigan in the musical, Annie.

“In 2012, Paul returned to Birkenhead for his TV series 'Paul O'Grady's Working Class', which saw him visit his birthplace - St Catherine's Hospital in Tranmere - Birkenhead Central Library (pictured), Flaybrick Cemetery, and the Lever Brothers (Unilever) factory in Port Sunlight.

“He also donned a conductor’s uniform to work on a bus - making his childhood dream come true.

The council statement added: “Plans are already underway for a fitting celebration of Paul’s life and contribution in the coming months.”

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