ITV has made a major change to its TV schedule following the death of comedian and presenter Paul O'Grady.

The For The Love Of Dogs host passed away “unexpectedly but peacefully" aged 67, his husband Andre Portasio confirmed.

Tributes have flooded in on social media following the news from the likes of Elton John, Lorraine, Veron Kay and the Royal family among others. 

During his TV career, he was known for hosting The Paul O’Grady Show, Blind Date and Blankety Blank and is also remembered for his drag queen persona Lily Savage.

ITV to air tribute programme for TV presenter Paul O'Grady

Following the news, ITV has made some changes to its schedule including broadcasting the Royal Special of his award-winning For The Love Of Dogs programme which features the Queen Consort.

The regal episode will air at 5pm on Wednesday, March 29 on ITV1 in place of the Chase.

The broadcaster will also pay tribute to O’Grady in a special titled For The Love Of Paul O’Grady which will air Sunday, April 9 at 8 pm.

The 11th series of Paul O’Grady: For The Love Of Dogs is due to launch on April 13.

The schedule change follows a social media tribute from the broadcaster which reads: "Paul O'Grady the much-loved presenter and comedian unexpectedly passed away peacefully at the age of 67.

"We are sending lots of love to Paul's husband, and all his family and friends."

ITV’s managing director of media and entertainment Kevin Lygo said: “We are fortunate to have had a long association with Paul, at ITV.

“He was a huge, inimitable talent, delighting our viewers through his comedy and entertainment with a warmth, humour and joy that audiences of all generations related to and connected with.”