THE START date for the new series of ITV’s For The Love Of Dogs has been confirmed following Paul O’Grady’s death.

It was announced in January this year that TV presenter Alison Hammond would replace the late O’Grady as the host of the ITV show.

The Great British Bake Off star will head to Battersea Dogs & Cats Home to help the animals in its care look for a new place to live.

Birkenhead-born O’Grady, who died last March, became an ambassador for the shelter in 2012 after the success of the award-winning programme, which he hosted for 11 series.

The upcoming six-part series will tell the stories of some of the latest arrivals at Battersea.

Hammond said: “I am very aware that I can never replace the iconic Paul in this wonderful series, but if I can continue to shine a light on the brilliant work done at Battersea and help to tell the stories of these beautiful dogs, then it will be an absolute privilege to give it my all.

“I can’t wait to share the joy of their searches for new, loving, forever homes and hopefully make lots of furry friends of my own along the way.”

Satmohan Panesar, commissioning editor for ITV, said: “We are thrilled to be able to confirm that the series will return in the spring and that the dogs have a brand-new champion in Alison Hammond.

“As Paul O’Grady always said himself, the stars of the show were the dogs themselves, but the impact that he had and the legacy he leaves will never be forgotten by any of us.

“We can’t wait to welcome back the series with Alison; there will be all the fun and warmth that our viewers have come to expect whilst continuing to showcase the wonderful and important work done by the incredible team at Battersea.”

O’Grady was given a special recognition award at the 2018 National Television Awards for the impact For The Love Of Dogs had on helping find homes for rescue animals nationwide.

Battersea chief executive Peter Laurie said: “Everyone at Battersea is excited to embark upon a brand-new series of For the Love of Dogs with Alison Hammond.

“Over the last 12 years, For the Love Of Dogs has shared with viewers the love and expert care Battersea dedicates to all the animals that need our help.

“Alongside our beloved ambassador, the late, great Paul O’Grady, we’ve enjoyed showing how much joy rescue animals can give, and we’re pleased we can continue to shine a light on the work our charity undertakes every day to improve the lives of dogs and cats.

“We’re looking forward to welcoming Alison to Battersea and introducing her to the incredible animals in our care as we help them on their journey to finding loving, new homes.”

When does the new series start?

The brand new series will begin on Tuesday April 16 at 8pm, with weekly episodes.

The show will air on ITV1 and ITVX, and STV1 and STV Player.