Locals invited to line the streets as Paul O'Grady's funeral takes place today

Neighbours of comedian and TV presenter Paul O'Grady have been invited to line the streets as the nation prepares to say goodbye to the much-loved star.

Paul, 67, died 'unexpectedly but peacefully' at his home on March 28 his husband Andre Portascio said. It was later confirmed he died as a result of sudden cardiac arrhythmia.

Andre has confirmed a private funeral will take place today (Thursday, April 20). And according to the Mirror, residents in the village where he lived in Kent have been invited to pay their respects as his funeral procession passes through.

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A private memorial is also planned for Port Lympne Safari Park - where Paul was a regular visitor. Widowed Andre shared the details of Paul's funeral on local Facebook pages as the nation prepares to say goodbye.

"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" he said in a post accompanied by a photograph of the entertainer smiling broadly while wearing white angel's wings.

"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."

Regarding the funeral he said; "As a mark of respect and as Paul would have wanted, we will be holding a private funeral on Thursday, 20th April 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