The funeral arrangements for legend Paul O'Grady have been revealed as fans are invited to line the streets to mourn the late comedian and TV presenter.
Paul's funeral cortege will pass through his home village in Kent on Thursday and locals have been invited to pay their respects ahead of his funeral.
The 67-year-old died from cardiac arrhythmia last month. His husband has shared the details of Paul's funeral on local Facebook pages as the nation prepares to say goodbye this week, the Mirror reports.
READ MORE: Shocking moment thug hurls brick at Glasgow restaurant in callous break-in
Widowed Andre released a new picture of the entertainer smiling broadly while wearing white angel's wings and wrote: "I want to take a moment to express my deepest gratitude for the overwhelming outpouring of support and love I have received since the passing of our beloved Paul O'Grady.
"Your kind messages, beautiful flowers, and thoughtful texts of condolences have brought me comfort and solace during this difficult time.
"I'm incredibly grateful for the support and love I have received from our community, and we want to thank each and every one of you for your kindness and generosity.
"As a mark of respect and as Paul would have wanted, we will be holding a private funeral on Thursday, April 20, 2023. This information has not been made public, but I wanted to share it with local residents.
"While the funeral will be a private ceremony, as many of you know, Paul cared a lot about his local community.
"We have therefore requested that the funeral procession passes through Aldington before heading to the church, as a way of marking Paul's affection for the area.
"We would therefore like to invite all locals to join us in paying our respects to Paul in Aldington Village between 14:10 - 14:45 on Thursday.
"In order to avoid road congestion and public disorder, we kindly ask all residents to treat this invitation personally and if attending to stand on either Roman Road, Forge Hill, or New Road Hill so to respect the villagers and the local area.
"Please note for public safety Church Road as well as Knoll Hill will be closed on the day of the procession. We kindly ask everyone to respect the family's wishes and maintain social distancing throughout the event.
"Thank you for your understanding and support during this difficult time."
A private memorial is also planned for Port Lympne Safari Park - where the 67-year-old was a regular visitor.
Paul's grieving loved ones believe he would have wanted the animals he adored to 'be around' during his funeral and they have selected the venue as it is home to more than 900 rare and endangered animals on a 600 acres park.
The much-loved TV presenter died at his Kent home on March 28.
A statement shared by family at the time of Paul's death revealed the Lily Savage star had died 'unexpectedly but peacefully' at the age of 67. The official death certificate has confirmed that Paul died from sudden cardiac arrhythmia.
The British Heart Foundation describes sudden arrhythmic death syndrome - or SADS - as a person dying suddenly following a cardiac arrest and no obvious cause can be found.
Paul had spoken openly about his battles with heart disease and had endured three heart attacks before the age of 65.
His death certificate, obtained by the Daily Express, showed a long-time friend and former PA and agent, Joan Marshrons, registered the entertainer's death six days after he died at home.
READ NEXT -
Barlinnie prisoner found dead in cell two days after arrest on Glasgow street
Glasgow chef's heartbreaking last words 'mum, I'm panicking' during fatal asthma attack at work
Thieving manager who destroyed East Kilbride GP surgery released early from prison
Developer wants big change to size of music and events venue next to Celtic Park
Clydesdale horses to return to Pollok Stables under heritage centre plans
