An animal charity and a TV personality who lives near Sandbach have paid tribute to Paul O'Grady, the TV presenter and comedian, who has died at the age of 67.

Chris Sherwood, chief executive of the RSPCA, said: "Paul O'Grady's love for animals and the incredible way he told their stories inspired countless families to re-home rescue pets and give them a second chance of happiness.

"His tireless campaigning saw Paul recognised with an RSPCA Animal Hero Award for his outstanding contribution to animal welfare, while he once adopted a little lamb Winston (pictured below) from us who had been rescued from a wheelie bin.

"The thoughts of all at the RSPCA are with his loved ones and our friends at Battersea at this difficult and sad time."

And Yvette Fielding, host of TV's Most Haunted, author of The Ghost Hunter Chronicles who knew Paul and lives near Sandbach, also paid tribute to him.

"I'm devastated. He was a unique, lovely soul. We had good laughs and many screams together. See you up there Paul," said Yvette on Twitter.