Bolton celebrities have paid tribute to Paul O’Grady who has died aged 67.

Paddy McGuinness and Vernon Kay have both paid heartfelt tributes to the popular TV personality who died on Tuesday evening “unexpectedly but peacefully”.

Taking to social media, TV presenter, Paddy said: “So saddened to hear about Paul’s passing.

“Paul let me stand in for him on his chat show over 15 years ago and he’d been supportive, kind and welcoming ever since.

“To think I’ll never see him in person again is very upsetting.

“In a funny way he always reminded me of my mum and auntie with his old school warmth and wit.

“The world has lost one of the good ones.

“Rest in peace Paul, you lovely, lovely man.”

Bolton-born Vernon added: “Paul O’Grady was one of the nicest and kindest people I’ve ever met.

“Always a joy to be around and obviously, so much fun.

“He will be missed.

“Telly and friends have lost one of the best….RIP.”

A statement shared with the PA news agency via a representative said Paul O’Grady died “unexpectedly but peacefully” on Tuesday evening.

Mr Portasio, O’Grady’s husband, said in his statement: “It is with great sadness that I inform you that Paul has passed away unexpectedly but peacefully yesterday evening.

“We ask, at this difficult time, that whilst you celebrate his life you also respect our privacy as we come to terms with this loss.

“He will be greatly missed by his loved ones, friends, family, animals, and all those who enjoyed his humour, wit and compassion.

“I know that he would want me to thank you for all the love you have shown him over the years.”

In 2017, O’Grady and Portasio got married with a low-key wedding ceremony.

During his TV career, he hosted The Paul O’Grady Show, Blind Date and Blankety Blank, as well as ITV’s multi-award winning For The Love Of Dogs.

He was also host of the ITV celebrity game show, Paul O’Grady’s Saturday Night Line Up.

O’Grady took over the reins from Blind Date’s long-running presenter and his close friend Cilla Black, who died in 2015, as he hosted the Channel 5 reboot of the show in 2017.

He was known for his drag queen persona Lily Savage.

O’Grady won numerous accolades throughout his career including a TV Bafta, a British Comedy Award, and a National Television Award for The Paul O’Grady Show.

He was made an MBE in the 2008 Queen’s Birthday Honours for services to entertainment and attended the ceremony with his daughter Sharyn Mousley.