A petition calling for a statue of Paul O'Grady to be put up in his hometown has now attracted more than 100,000 signatures - leading to the launch of a crowdfunding appeal to pay for it. The TV presenter and comedian, born in Birkenhead on the Wirral, Merseyside, died aged 67 last week and fans want a permanent memorial to be built.
The petition was set up by Kieran Gabriel, who said: "Paul O'Grady passed away suddenly on March 28th and it only feels right to honour the life of such a great human being by immortalising him in statue form, in his hometown of Birkenhead."
Kieran referenced O'Grady's drag queen persona Lily Savage, as well as his years hosting ITV's For The Love of Dogs, which focused on pets looking for new homes at Battersea. "Paul has left a huge legacy with his trailblazing work as a drag artist, social and political causes, LGBT rights and of course, his love of animals," said Kieran, who suggested the memorial could be similar to one at Liverpool’s Cavern Club honouring the late entertainer Cilla Black.
"This is a petition to the Wirral Council, who must surely take stock of the huge outpouring of love in the wake of Paul's passing. Liverpool has Cilla, Birkenhead deserves Paul."
Over 112,500 people had added their names as of 10pm on Wednesday, April 5. Commenting on the level of support, Kieran said: "We recently achieved over 100,000 signatures - an overwhelming and incredible amount so I'd like to thank each and every one of you - I know it would warm Paul's heart to know of the love that's been shared over the past week.
"The next stage in this process is to secure funding to allow us to commission the statue, this is where we once again ask for your generosity - how ever little you can afford, is much appreciated. Having consulted with an extremely reputable sculptor and foundry, we have set the milestone at £70k, a high figure but we believe it’s achievable, having seen the love and warmth out there for Paul."
O’Grady was made an MBE in the 2008 Queen’s Birthday Honours for services to entertainment. In a statement, his husband Andre Portasio said he died “unexpectedly but peacefully”.
