AN online petition calling for a statue honouring the late Paul O'Grady in his hometown has had more than 90,000 signatures.

The Birkenhead-born TV presenter and comedian died “unexpectedly but peacefully” last Tuesday evening (March 28).

The petition for a statue in his memory was set up by Kieran Gabriel, from Prenton. 

Read more: 'Thanks for the laughs': Globe readers' sadness after the death of Paul O'Grady

In his petition statement, Kieran - who delivered the Globe as a youngster - said: "Paul has left a huge legacy with his trailblazing work as a drag artist, social and political causes, LGBT rights and, of course, his love of animals. Liverpool has Cilla, Birkenhead deserves Paul."

On his reasons for setting up the petition, Kieran told the Globe this morning: "It just felt like the right thing to do, and I was surprised that there wasn't already a petition.

"Liverpool has so many statues of icons from the area and I think Paul has left behind such a huge legacy with his animal rights work, LGBT and political activism, and of course his huge cultural impact with Lily Savage.

"And Birkenhead would absolutely be the right place for such a permanent tribute, since I know Birkenhead was always so close to his heart.

"I started it purely with no expectation so the fact it is now at 90,000 signatures is amazing!

To sign the petition, click here

During his TV career, Paul hosted The Paul O’Grady Show, Blind Date and Blankety Blank, as well as ITV’s multi-award-winning For The Love Of Dogs.

He was also the host of the ITV celebrity game show, Paul O’Grady’s Saturday Night Line Up.

Wirral Globe: Paul O'Grady at Birkenhead Central Library during filming for his TV series 'Paul O'Grady's Working Class'Paul O'Grady at Birkenhead Central Library during filming for his TV series 'Paul O'Grady's Working Class' (Image: Wirral Libraries)

In August 2022, he presented his final BBC Radio 2 show, having hosted the Sunday afternoon programme for nearly 14 years.

Read more: Wirral Council plans 'fitting celebration' of Paul O'Grady's life

Paul was born in Birkenhead. His mother’s maiden name was Savage which is believed to have inspired his famous drag alter ego.

He began his career performing as Lily Savage in the 1970s whilst working as a peripatetic care officer for Camden Council, going on to tour northern England as part of drag duo the Playgirls.

O’Grady’s career as Savage took off with TV and radio appearances in character and he was eventually asked to take over from Paula Yates as The Big Breakfast presenter as Savage from 1995 to 1996.

He was made an MBE in the 2008 Queen’s Birthday Honours for services to entertainment and attended the ceremony with his daughter Sharyn Mousley.

News of Paul's passing was confirmed by his partner Andre Portasio.

He said in his statement: "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."

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