Paul O’Grady faced down Tory austerity, homophobia and shame – he was a true hero | Matt Cain

As Lily Savage and as himself, he confronted prejudice and celebrated gay culture. His stories must not die with him

• Matt Cain was formerly editor-in-chief of Attitude

Paul O'Grady may have been a national treasure but before anything he was a gay hero. As a gay storyteller myself, I found him hugely inspiring.

I first saw O'Grady perform as his drag alter ego Lily Savage in the 1990s. I was gobsmacked yet galvanised by his bawdy, often sexually explicit humour. I also remember feeling encouraged that so many straight people in the audience were roaring with laughter.