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Daily Record
Daily Record
Entertainment
Neil Shaw & Eve Beattie

Paul O'Grady's funeral set to be held at wildlife park close to his heart

It's being reported that Paul O'Grady's funeral will be held at a wildlife park so that he can be surrounded by animals.

Throughout his life, the late comedian and broadcaster was known for his love of animals, with Battersea Dogs & Cats Home recently stating that he had such a positive impact on them and humans alike.

On Saturday, it was confirmed that the star's cause of death was a heart attack, which doctors attributed to a combination of congenital family heart problems with stress, heavy smoking, and caffeine reports Hull Daily Mail.

On Sunday, The Mail reported that plans for his funeral are well underway, and the celebration of his life will be held at Port Lympne Safari Park in Kent, where he was a regular visitor.

Paul lived in Aldington, three miles from Port Lympne. According to reports, there will be a service at a nearby church before a celebration at the venue.

A source said: "Paul loved Port Lympne. He got to know some of its residents very well and it was thought by his nearest and dearest that it would be a beautiful idea to hold his funeral there so they are in attendance, too. Staff hope they can do him proud."

Port Lympne is home to over 900 rare and endangered animals, including monkeys, lions and tigers. It also has a prestigious hotel and restaurant.

It was previously announced that Paul would have two funerals, one private affair for close friends and family and another public celebration.

The much-loved star, who started out as a social worker while performing on the London nightclub circuit as the acerbic, platinum wig-wearing Lily Savage, died “unexpectedly but peacefully” on March 28, his partner, Andre Portasio, said in a statement.

Throughout his career, O’Grady worked extensively to support animal charities and was well known for his love of animals.

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