FUNNYMAN and RSPCA celebrity supporter John Bishop has urged people across Wales and beyond to nominate contenders for the prestigious RSPCA award scheme.

Nominations for the 2019 RSPCA honours are open – and animal campaigners and advocates across Wales have the chance to pick up a host of gongs.

RSPCA Cymru - alongside Liverpool comedian John Bishop - is urging people across Wales to think about animal champions they may know who deserve recognition for their hard work.

Nominations can be made via the RSPCA website.

John was awarded Celebrity Animal Champion of the Year in 2018 and is urging people across Wales to get involved.

He thanked the RSPCA, and talked about his extensive collection of rescue animals, including dogs, chickens, sheep, horses and alpacas, as well as a pig called Milo adopted from RSPCA Block Fen Animal Centre and two RSPCA turkeys - Ingrid and Bernard.

John said: “It was great to receive the Celebrity Animal Champion of the Year award from the RSPCA last year.

"Animals are an important part of my life and we have lots of rescue pets at home, including our lovely turkeys!

“Animals give you double the love you give them and that’s why I think people should rescue an animal. There are loads of them out there and they’re just waiting for you.

“Nominations are now open so why not kick-start the new year by thanking an amazing animal champion.”

He added: “The RSPCA honours is an inspiring night showcasing some great animal lovers and amazing animals.

"It is an opportunity to recognise those people and organisations that help to make the lives of animals better through kindness, courage and determination.”

Last year's star-studded event saw celebrities such as Jo Brand, Deborah Meaden, Peter Egan, Alistair Stewart, Angela Rippon, Kate Lawler and Pete Wicks celebrate amazing winners and nominees, and their shared love for animals.

In 2019, the event is set to be even bigger and better, and will take place at BAFTA 195 Piccadilly in London.

More information on the honours programme is available on the RSPCA website.