A former army officer from the Isle of Wight, and his assistance dog, are finalists in the Armed Forces' Soldiering On Awards — and they need Islanders' help!

Jonathon Giemza-Pipe, from Ryde, is up for the Animal Partnership Award, alongside his canine companion, Baxter.

The awards are decided by public vote and Islanders are being urged to get behind the best friends.

Jonathon, who served in the Royal Artillery, was medically discharged from 2016 after 22 years.

Here's how to vote for Jonathon and Baxter in the Soldiering On awards

To vote for Jonathon and Baxter in the Soldiering On awards, click HERE.

He struggled to regain direction in his life, and during the early days of his rehabilitation, a therapist suggested he apply for an Assistance Dog.

First came Toby, and then Baxter. Jonathon, who is also a trustee for Island charity Isle Acess, said they changed his entire outlook.

Deciding he wanted to help other Veterans navigate their mental health issues, he became a Veterans' Peer Support Worker.

The Soldiering On Awards said: "Wherever he goes, Baxter is with him - from crossing by ferry from the Isle of Wight, to Veteran Drop-Ins in Bicester, he's there!

"Without him, Jonathon says, he wouldn't be doing what he is today - Baxter is chief confidant, stress reliever, best friend, and scourge of any carrots left lying around!"

The awards close at 11.59pm on August 6.