Paul O’Grady was honoured with the Outstanding Contribution to Animal Welfare prize at the Animal Hero Awards in London on Wednesday (07.09.16) night.
The 61-year-old presenter received the prestigious trophy at the ceremony, held at the Grosvenor House Hotel, after being recognised for his work as an ambassador for Battersea Dogs and Cats Home, for being a patron of the Orangutan Appeal UK and CROW based in Durban, South Africa, as well as his support for several UK-based animal charities.
He said during his heart-warming acceptance speech: "If we’re supposed to be animal lovers, let’s show it."
The award ceremony – which was hosted by Amanda Holden – saw the RSPCA team up with the Daily Mirror as they celebrate bravery, dedication and resilience in the animal world.
RSPCA chief executive Jeremy Cooper said: "The Animal Hero Awards is a fantastic and unique evening celebrating those people who go the extra mile for animals, as well as the animals who really make a difference to the lives of those around them."
Celebrity guests such as Lucy Watson, Danny-Boy Hatchard, Shona McGarty, Alesha Dixon, Tom Fletcher, Bobby Norris, Brian May and Tilly Keeper attended the event with their pet pooches.
The full list of Animal Hero Award winners are as follows;
Outstanding Contribution to Animal Welfare – Paul O’Grady
RSPCA Superstar of The Year – Mike Butcher
Rescue Animal of The Year – Lucy the Cavalier
Outstanding Business of The Year – Barratt Homes
Young Animal Enthusiast of The Year – Lucy Gavaghan from Sheffield and Liam Landymore from Shebbear
Hero Animal of The Year – Baxter from Renfrewshire
Vet of The Year – Janey Lowes
Caring Animal of The Year – Haatchi
Special Recognition Award – Sue Dicks and Lee Webb
Public Service Animal of The Year – Rex from Dorset and Hexam, Captain and Tangle the police horses from Manchester, Macclesfield and Accrington
Animal Enthusiast of The Year – Martin Hemmington
Lifetime Achievement Award – David Shepherd