Paul O'Grady was last night in mourning for his beloved dog Buster which has died of cancer.

The dog, a big part of his Channel 4 chat show, was put down by vets after being diagnosed with the disease and appearing to be in considerable pain.

A spokesman for Paul last night said the TV star was "absolutely gutted".

Until recently Paul had sat alongside the 14-yearold shih tzu-bichon frise cross on the show.

But he has not featured as much on the current series due to his age.

On Channel 4's website there is a page devoted to Buster which states: "Having grown up on the Big Breakfast Show and Lily Live, he's happiest on television.

"The only downside to being on the show is all the baths he's made to have, as he's happiest rolling around in the dirt on Paul's farm."

Source: Daily Mirror