A COUPLE from Birkenhead have been left “devastated” to find that TV star Paul O’Grady has attacked their family in his autobiography.

O’Grady makes a series of unflattering remarks in his book about Michael Long, now living in Flintshire, North Wales, and his parents Rose and George, who have both died.

As a youngster, Michael was a neighbour of O’Grady’s in Birkenhead.

Michael Long and his wife, Linda, returned from a holiday in Cyprus to be told by Linda’s sister, Susan Morgan, about the write-up.

Over eight pages, O’Grady – who shot to fame as drag act Lily Savage – describes his memories of Michael and his family in his recently-published autobiography, Paul O’Grady At My Mother’s Knee And Other Low Joints.

Michael, 58, who is disabled with a nervous system disorder, said the comments show them in an “appalling light”.

The book contains a number of derogatory remarks about Michael’s family, including describing him as being someone who would have been “tagged and asboed at birth”.

Michael said: “It is just unbelievable. It has crucified this family. I have had no sleep for five days.

“My cousin has had people stopping her in the street who knew us, saying what a disgrace it was.”

Linda said: “We just want to see Paul O’Grady face to face to ask him why?”

Neither Mr O’Grady, his agent or his publishers were willing to speak to the Daily Post about the claims made in the book, despite repeated requests.