NOMINATIONS are needed for Bromsgrove's most 'paw-fect' pets as the nation's leading pet charity reinstates its historic Blue Cross medal to mark the 1914 centenary.

Blue Cross, which provides support for pet owners who cannot afford private veterinary treatment, helps to find homes for unwanted animals and educates the public in the responsibilities of animal ownership, wants pet owners to nominate their four-legged friends who have helped make a difference in their lives.

Neil Edwards, centre manager at Blue Cross rehoming centre in Bromsgrove said: “Animals have made such a positive difference to the lives of people throughout history, and continue to do so to this day.

"We’re looking pets with an extraordinary tale to tell, be it whiskered warriors, courageous canines or even heroic horses."

The charity, which was originally founded to help working horses in London, played an important role providing front line veterinary care to horses during World War One and in 1918 awarded a number of medals to honour horses which had served in the war.

The first medal was awarded in 1917 to Major Methuen of the King's Royal Rifles for the rescue of horses under shellfire on the battlefield in France.

The last Blue Cross Medal was awarded in 2007 to a Metropolitan Police Explosives dog called Jake, who cleared the scene at the Tavistock Square bus bombing, and walked the tube tunnels at Kings Cross so paramedics had access to the injured.

“Not only will our special edition Blue Cross Medal commemorate both our history on the battlefield, but it will also recognise the important role animals play in our lives today. We’d love to hear from anyone in the area who thinks their companion could be crowned the nation’s most heroic pet,” added Neil.

The Blue Cross Medal is open to pets that have done something brave, life changing partnerships, assistance animals or serving or working animals. Deadline for entries is September 1, 2014. To find out more visit bluecross.org.uk/medal.