Television personality Paul O’Grady earmarked £500,000 of his estate for the Battersea Cats and Dogs Home, a recent report reveals.
The beloved comedian and broadcaster designated a total of £775,000 to various organizations close to his heart, with £50,000 allocated to the Salvation Army.
O’Grady, who passed away in March last year at the age of 67, was renowned for his advocacy for animals and staunch support for numerous animal rights campaigns, including the ban on fur in Britain.
His notable contributions included hosting ITV’s acclaimed documentary series “For The Love Of Dogs,” which offered a glimpse into life at Battersea Dogs and Cats Home.
A close friend of O’Grady shared with The Sun: “This gesture exemplifies Paul’s commitment to causes dear to him, demonstrating his philanthropic spirit.”
Peter Laurie, Chief Executive of Battersea, expressed profound gratitude for O’Grady’s bequest, underscoring his enduring dedication to animal welfare. Laurie emphasized O’Grady’s firsthand experience witnessing the unwavering care provided to animals at Battersea.
Last October, Battersea Dogs and Cats Home honored O’Grady by naming its veterinary hospital after him, further acknowledging his profound impact on animal welfare. Additionally, O’Grady received an RSPCA animal hero award for his significant contributions to animal welfare.
Recognizing his lifelong commitment to animal rights, O’Grady was named Peta’s person of the year in December. His involvement with Peta since the 1990s, aimed at raising awareness about animal testing, and his advocacy against herding sheep across London Bridge in 2014, exemplified his dedication to making the world a kinder place for animals.
