READERS voted for their favourite pet pictures - and the winners did not disappoint.

We saw everything this year, from dogs and cats to budgies, a parrot from Lordshill, and even a rat called Betty.

You were encouraged to submit pictures of your family pets to appear in the Echo on June 23.

Readers could use the voting slip to choose their favourite for a chance to win £50 in vouchers.

Maddisun Gingell, 24, and partner Dan, 22, are the proud owners of this year's winners, Hurley and Bear.

Daily Echo: The winning picture of Hurley and BearThe winning picture of Hurley and Bear

Hurley is a two-year-old American pugabull, a cross between an American bulldog and a pug.

The couple has had him since December 2020, when he was a puppy.

"When Hurley was a puppy, we always had a lot of attention from him as he is one of a kind, an unusual mix," Maddisun said.

Daily Echo: Hurley as a puppyHurley as a puppy

"Hurley is such a big softy. He is a gentle giant, the soppiest dog you will meet. He is scared of hot cross buns, chickens, and teddies. You name it, he’s scared of it."

One-year-old Bear is the newest addition, who they bought in January to be a friend to Hurley as the couple moved into their first home.

She said: "He is a mixed bulldog, we're not sure exactly of his origins. Despite his grumpy face, he is a loveable little pup.

"We got him as a companion for Hurley when we moved into our own home as Hurley grew up with other dogs. Since then, they have become best friends.

"They are loving dogs and a part of the family. They are both wimps and scared of everything. They love spending time with our extended family which includes other pets and children."

Maddisun, who has lived in Southampton all her life, added: "I entered it because my grandma told me about sending photos in for Pet Idol, and at the time I had taken a cute photo. I didn’t think we would end up winning.

"I didn't realise it would be in the paper. It was quite cute that they won. I am so pleased they were chosen."

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