Alison Hammond has just been announced as the new presenter of the For The Love of Dogs series.
ITV has just shared the news that the This Morning star will be fronting the award-winning series as she prepares to head to Battersea Dogs & Cats Home to help the animals in their care look for a new place to live, following the sad passing of much-loved presenter Paul O’Grady last spring.
The six-part series will tell the stories of some of the latest arrivals at Battersea, as Alison 'rolls up her sleeves and helps Battersea’s expert staff and volunteers to take care of the animals and get them ready for their potential new owners'.
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Speaking about the decision, Alison explained: "I am very aware that I can never replace the iconic Paul in this wonderful series, but if I can continue to shine a light on the brilliant work done at Battersea and help to tell the stories of these beautiful dogs, then it will be an absolute privilege to give it my all.
"I can’t wait to share the joy of their searches for new loving forever homes and hopefully make lots of furry friends of my own along the way!"
Satmohan Panesar, Commissioning Editor for ITV said: "We are thrilled to be able to confirm that the series will return in the spring and that the dogs have a brand-new champion in Alison Hammond.
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"As Paul O'Grady always said himself, the stars of the show were the dogs themselves, but the impact that he had and the legacy he leaves will never be forgotten by any of us.
"We can't wait to welcome back the series with Alison; there will be all the fun and warmth that our viewers have come to expect whilst continuing to showcase the wonderful and important work done by the incredible team at Battersea."
Peter Laurie, Battersea Chief Executive added: "Everyone at Battersea is excited to embark upon a brand-new series of For the Love of Dogs with Alison Hammond. Over the last twelve years, For the Love of Dogs has shared with viewers the love and expert care Battersea dedicates to all the animals that need our help.
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"Alongside our beloved Ambassador, the late, great Paul O’Grady, we've enjoyed showing how much joy rescue animals can give, and we’re pleased we can continue to shine a light on the work our charity undertakes every day to improve the lives of dogs and cats.
"We’re looking forward to welcoming Alison to Battersea and introducing her to the incredible animals in our care as we help them on their journey to finding loving, new homes."
O'Grady was 67-years-old when he died, with his family announcing at the time that he died 'unexpectedly but peacefully' on 28 March.
Shocking the whole country, O'Grady's husband, Andre Portasio, shared the devastating news on social media, writing: "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.
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"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."
Rhiannon Ingle