Mourners, TV stars and dogs gathered on Thursday afternoon to pay their final respects to beloved comedian Paul O'Grady.
Hundreds of fans lined the streets of Paul's hometown of Aldington in Kent as the late presenter's coffin travelled through the village in a horse-drawn carriage. The funeral procession was led by Paul's husband Andre Portasio, and their pet dog.
Next to Paul's coffin was an incredibly touching floral tribute to the late star's furry friend, Buster. The white floral dog-shaped tribute featured a collar bearing the dog's name.
The star, who died aged 67, was laid to rest in a private ceremony featuring a touching tribute from numerous dogs from Battersea Dogs & Cats Home. In honour of the TV star's unwavering support of the animal home, the dogs formed a guard of honour.
Numerous stars such as Ronnie Wood, Alan Carr, Gaby Roslin, Jo Brand and Julian Clary were also in attendance to pay an emotional farewell to the TV icon.
© GettyAndre invited members of the local community via Facebook groups. "While the funeral will be a private ceremony, as many of you know, Paul cared a lot about his local community," he penned ahead of the service.
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"We have therefore requested that the funeral procession passes through Aldington before heading to the church, as a way of marking Paul's affection for the area."
© GettyAt the time of his death, Andre released a statement which read: "It is with great sadness that I inform you that Paul has passed away unexpectedly but peacefully yesterday evening.
"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."
© GettyStars and fans were quick to share their heartbreak following the tragic news. Amanda Holden shared a picture of the pair and wrote: "Woken up to this sad, sad news. I loved Paul. He was brilliantly opinionated, searingly sharp and very funny… I love our conversations… I can't quite believe it. Thoughts with Andre and their family."
© GettyCarol Vorderman, meanwhile, tweeted: "Paul O'Grady. Already giving them raucous, ripping up the rulebook, mischief-making, calling it out, loving hell in heaven. Paul, what are we meant to do without you?"
Paul rose to fame in the 1990s with his iconic scouse drag queen persona Lily Savage, going on to present game show Blankety Blank and other light entertainment programmes.
Later in his career, he went on to host a number of chat shows and also brought his love of dogs to the screen - something that brought him close to the Queen Consort.
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