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Liverpool Echo
Liverpool Echo
Entertainment
Kate Lally

Pride of Britain fans praise Paul O'Grady after 'Rishi Sunak dig'

The Pride of Britain awards have returned for 2022, with some of the UK's bravest unsung heroes honoured for their extraordinary achievements.

Hosted by Carol Vorderman and Ashley Banjo, the emotionally charged annual event aired on TV on Thursday evening (October 27). A variety of other famous faces were also in attendance to deliver the awards to the deserving recipients.

The Lifetime Achievement Award went to Jill Allen-King, who lost her eyesight on her wedding day as she went completely blind from glaucoma aged 24.

READ MORE: This Morning's Holly Willoughby supported as she prepares for tears at Pride of Britain

After undergoing huge adjustments to her day-to-day life, and facing prejudice and criticism, Jill has spent 50 years improving the lives of blind and partially sighted people in the UK and Europe.

The 82-year-old's campaign for improving public spaces to support animals started in 1972 when she got her first guide dog Topsy. The courageous campaigner has also obtained an OBE.

When she arrived on stage, Jill warmed the hearts of those in the audience by "teaching" Ashley Banjo how to dance the cha-cha-cha. She also said she had "no plans" to stop campaigning as there is plenty more to be done for blind and partially sighted people.

Paul O'Grady was on hand to present Jill with her award, as well as a medal for her guide dog, Jagger. And as ever, he gave a quick-witted performance.

He said: "I've been told you wanted to be a Lib Dem councillor... well, there's just been a vacancy in politics. Unfortunately, it has now been filled".

Those watching at home were thrilled with his comments, with many taking to Twitter to praise the Birkenhead-born TV personality. Sarah B said: "Just when I thought I couldn't love #prideofbritain more, Paul O'Grady has a pop at Rishi Sunak", while AJ said: "Paul O'Grady is hilarious, love that gag about Number 10".

Gillian said: "POG never fails to make me giggle".

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