Generous Moray residents have given thousands of pounds towards training wonder dogs to help disabled people.
Charity collectors raised £8,000 in the area last year towards providing vulnerable people with highly skilled pets.
A local fundraising base for the national Dogs for Good organisation was established in 2011 by Elgin resident Les Pearson.
The latter is one of the charity’s proudest ambassadors, helping amass almost £40,000 over the last five years.
Yesterday, the firm’s national fundraising boss commended both Mr Pearson and Moray residents for their generosity of spirit.
Dogs for Good manager Stephanie Lawless said: “We are very grateful to Mr Pearson for his hard work in raising these desperately needed funds.
“The charity is thrilled with the response and, nationally, our supporter groups raised £130,000 last year.”
Mr Pearson, who suffers from spinal injuries which hamper his mobility, was inspired to raise cash for the cause after he was given Italian Spinone dog Vinnie.
The 59-year-old credited the dog with restoring his independence.
Vinnie loaded and unloaded Mr Pearson’s washing machine, opened doors for him, switched on lights, helped with shopping and picked up his post.
The dog also accompanied him as he gave talks at clubs, schools and groups about the charity’s work.
The former RAF engineer was heartbroken in 2013 when Vinnie passed away, and resolved to dedicate further fundraising efforts to his memory.
Since then Mr Pearson has gained a new four-legged friend in black labrador Homer.
In 2014, Homer walked by Mr Pearson’s side as he took part in the Queen’s Baton Relay through Forres.