Meet the judges who had the tough job of choosing this year’s outstanding winners of the Mirror People’s Pet Awards.
Now in their second year, the awards – run with innovative pet food, treats and toys brand Webbox, charity partner Dogs Trust and Cats Protection – will celebrate the unique bond we have with our pets, and the inspirational ways they change our lives.
The judges were tasked with choosing 10 pets and people who have saved and changed lives, rescue animals who have overcome impossible odds, and animals you just can’t help falling in love with.
They spent more than two hours deciding who should go through.
This year’s panel included author and TV producer Jane Fallon, TV and radio presenter Nicky Campbell, and actors and animal rights campaigners Peter Egan and Lesley Nicol.
Also on the panel were Lloyd Embley, group editor-in-chief of Reach PLC, Alison Phillips, editor-in-chief at The Mirror, Michelle Linaker, head of national events at Reach PLC, and Shiraz Lalani, editorial director.
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They were joined by Tony Raeburn, CEO of Webbox, and Owen Sharp, CEO of Dogs Trust.
Nicky Campbell said: “The winners’ stories fill you with hope. Whether inspirational animals, charity workers or lifelong campaigners, they all make you realise the wonderful bond between people and animals.”
Among those receiving a trophy are a British team who conducted an international animal rescue mission and a charity dedicated to helping animal lovers escape domestic abuse.
They will be presented with their awards at a ceremony at London’s Grosvenor House on Thursday.
