Paul O’Grady: Entertainer named Peta's person of the year

Entertainer Paul O'Grady has been posthumously named Peta's person of the year.

The animal rights organisation said the award recognised his "lifelong determination to make the world a kinder place for animals."

The Birkenhead-born TV presenter who died in March aged 67, was a leading advocate for helping dogs and cats find permanent homes.

He also supported numerous animal rights campaigns including banning fur.

O'Grady was well-known for presenting ITV's documentary series For The Love Of Dogs, which showcased life at Battersea Dogs and Cats Home, which he became an ambassafor for in 2012.

"Peta recognises and thanks Paul O'Grady for his lifelong determination to make the world a kinder place for animals," a statement from People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (Peta) said.

"He never wavered in his commitment to protecting the most vulnerable among us. We will always treasure his legacy of compassion."

O'Grady joined the animal rights organisation Peta in the 1990s to raise awareness about testing on animals, and also urged the Lord Mayor of London to stop herding sheep across London Bridge in 2014.

He raised awareness of the treatment of orcas in marine parks and joined a call to ban foie gras.

Peta vice president of programmes Elisa Allen said: "Paul O'Grady once said that 'it is our duty to treat animals with respect', and he lived by his own principles every day by being a tireless animal advocate.

"He never wavered in his commitment to protecting the most vulnerable among us. We will always treasure his legacy of compassion."

O'Grady's husband Andre Portasio will be presented with the award on his behalf.