Comedian Paul O’Grady has won a National Television Award after passing away six months ago.

The late star was given the posthumous award at the ceremony, held on September 5th, for his popular show For the Love of Dogs.

The beloved TV personality, who was famous for his alter-ego Lily Savage, won over Clarkson’s Farm, Sort Your Life Out and The Martin Lewis Money Show Live, in the factual entertainment category.

Battersea Dogs and Cats Home representatives accepted the award on O’Grady’s behalf.

They were accompanied by a rescue dog, who even gave its own hilarious tribute to the star as it began barking during the acceptance speech from Shaun Opperman, Veterinary Director at Battersea.

Mr Opperman said: “I would like to thank Paul, of course, and the ITV team… for shining a light on the care that we’re able to provide for the 100 or more dogs and cats that come to Battersea every week.

“I know that Paul cared deeply for each and every one of those animals. I think that something about their plight and their vulnerability really struck a chord with Paul. He often referred to Battersea as his second home.”

In a post on O’Grady’s Instagram page, a representative for the late star from Birkenhead wrote: “We wanted to take a moment to extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone who voted for ‘Paul O’Grady: For the Love of Dogs’ at the NTAs.

“Your support means the world to us, and it’s a true testament to the incredible work @paulogrady has done for dogs and all animals.

“We couldn’t have done it without your unwavering support. It’s a moment of celebration not only for us but for all those furry friends who benefit from Paul’s dedication and passion.

“So, here’s to @paulogrady and his tireless efforts in making the world a better place for our beloved animals. We raise a glass in his honor and look forward to continuing our mission to help those in need.

“Thank you once again for your votes and for being a part of our journey.”

Everyone’s favourite duo Anthony McPartlin and Declan Donnelly, aka Ant and Dec, won the best TV presenter accolade for the 22nd consecutive time.

The pair said they are the ‘luckiest two men on telly’ in their acceptance speech, with McPartlin adding that they will continue to present together for ‘as long as you want us to’.

Hit BBC series Happy Valley, written by Sally Wainwright, was among the other big winners on the night. The hit three-part series bagged the returning drama prize.

Star of the show, actress Sarah Lancashire, also won best drama performance for her portrayal of Sergeant Catherine Cawood, ahead of her co-star James Norton, as well as Queen Charlotte’s India Amarteifio, Vera’s Brenda Blethyn and Call The Midwife’s Judy Parfitt.

Speaking to the audience, Lancashire said she ‘adored every scene’ of Happy Valley and ‘will never forget it’.

The new series of Married At First Sight is returning to TV screens this month.

Fans of the E4 reality show can have their fill of the popular dating show which is set to return to screens sooner rather than later, on September 18th.

Fourteen brides and grooms will head to the altar in the hope of meeting their perfect match.

The new group of singles agree to marry a partner chosen for them by a team of relationship experts, Charlene Douglas, Paul C Brunson and Mel Schilling.

Set to be the longest running series yet, there will be an added six shows for fans to indulge in all the drama for a bit longer.

And if that’s not enough, this year will see a star from Geordie Shore as well as the first transgender contestant taking part in the search for marital bliss.

From Geordie Shore to MAFS UK, Nathaniel Valentino, 36, an events marketing manager with a jet-set lifestyle, is always on the move.

Perhaps a difficult one for the experts to match, Nathaniel says: “I don’t trust anyone but myself, but I hope they’ve done a good job that’s all I can say.”

Ella Ding will make history for the show being its first transgender bride.

Ella, 29, who lives with her nan, says they make the dynamic duo everyone needs.

Hopeful in meeting ‘the one’, Ella said: “This experiment is so much more than just me getting married. I see this as a big deal for someone who has transitioned.” 

After the ceremony and celebrations are over, true love is well and truly put to the test, as the newlyweds will embark on a luxurious honeymoon, before moving in with each other AND their fellow couples.

A 24-hour TV channel will be playing nothing but festive films from Thursday, September 7th. 

UK broadcaster Narrative Entertainment has announced the launch of of its annual ‘GREAT! Christmas’ – a free channel showing old classics and new premieres up until January 2024. 

You can now get ready for those cosy evenings as the nights grow darker and it becomes a bit chilly outside.

After a summer of exploring European cities and dancing away at sweaty and muddy festivals, it’s time to get in the seasonal spirit and get ready for the festive dates that are next up in the calendar.

GREAT! Christmas will show a variety of yuletide delights for you to look forward to, including romantic Christmas films, children’s animated options, old classics, cult favourites, and plenty more.

The 24/7 festive channel will be available to watch on Freeview 52, Sky 319, Virgin 424, and Freesat 303.

GREAT! Christmas will be full of back-to-back ‘fun, light-hearted films with a touch of tinsel that really resonate with audiences who are looking for upbeat content and lovely Christmas stories’.

Don’t be a Scrooge, lighten up and tune in to view all your favourite Chrimbo movies – after-all, it’s the most wonderful time of the year.

GREAT! Christmas will be available to watch from Thursday, September 7th until January 2024.