THE battle to be named this year's Pet Idol champion has brought a record number of entries with hundred of readers sending us pictures of their much-loved companions.

The deadline for entering this year's competition has passed and we have received a wide range of pet pictures.

From bearded dragons to dogs, cats, cockatoos and chinchillas, we even have a Kune Kune pig in the mix.

Sadly Pippin the toy crocodile did not make the finals despite being the adored pet of his young owner Logan Smith although we were delighted Logan shared his picture with us!

This year's winner will not only have the prestige of taking the title of Pet Idol 2017 but will also receive a £300 prize.

To see all the entries and start voting for your favourite get your copy of next week's Courier - competition get underway on August 3.