Brockenhurst-based Orangutan Appeal UK pays tribute to late comedian and TV host Paul O'Grady

Brockenhurst-based charity Orangutan Appeal UK has paid tribute to its patron TV star Paul O'Grady.

Best known for his work as raucous stand-up comic Lily Savage and later a TV host, Paul O'Grady died yesterday (Tuesday) evening aged 67.

A spokesperson for the conservation charity said volunteers there have been left "saddened" by the comedian's death, adding that he will be "truly missed".

The spokesperson added: “His passion for animals was always evident, and during a trip to Sepilok in 2015 he fell in love with baby orangutan Archie.

"Since that moment, he supported our work as patron and ambassador, and his kindness over the years will not be forgotten.”

Paul first visited the Sepilok Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre, which the charity supports by employing staff to care for the orangutans, as part of the show Paul O'Grady's Animal Orphans.

As a patron of the charity, he worked to highlight conservation issues affecting orangutans and their habitat.

For more information about Orangutan Appeal UK visit orangutan-appeal.org.uk