PEMBROKESHIRE charity the VC Gallery in Haverfordwest has been chosen as the Pride in Pembrokeshire Award for August.

In doing so, is has become the 13th winner of the award.

Pride in Pembrokeshire Award panel members were impressed with the group’s "commitment to delivering a collaborative approach to meeting identified local need, and the broad scope of work in reaching the young and the elderly, veterans and other vulnerable people at risk from the harm of social exclusion, rural isolation and deprivation".

"It is clear that the VC Gallery makes a substantial contribution to improving individual and community well-being in our area," the panel added.

Founded by career soldier and established artist Mr Barry John MBE, the VC Gallery is a central location where groups and individuals come together and work on art based projects.

The aim of the gallery is to help people overcome social exclusion and become a hub for the major veteran and community charities that have no permanent presence locally.

“When I left the Army, I realized there was no provision for veterans and community members around mental health, social exclusion and re-integration in Pembrokeshire, so I wanted to change that," said Mr John.

“It’s grown from humble beginnings and over the last 12 months we have engaged with over 1,500 people of all ages and circumstances in a variety of settings.”

Launched in 2017, the Pride in Pembrokeshire Awards are a partnership between the Pembrokeshire Public Services Board (PSB) and the Western Telegraph – with each winning entry awarded £200.

To submit an application for the next Pride in Pembrokeshire £200 cheque, download the application form from the PAVS website – www.pavs.org.uk – or contact PAVS on 01437 769422 to receive a hard copy.