A DOG that saved his young owners from depression and suicide has received a prestigious medal.

Lemmy the mastiff was introduced to his new family home in Didcot after their previous dog Suzi died.

The death of Suzi took a took a heavy toll on the Landowski family - particularly the mental health of brothers Max and Joe.

Mum Maria was shocked to see 27-year-old Max, the older son, become suicidal as a result of the dog's death.

Younger brother Joe also suffered with serious depression following Suzi's death.

After Lemmy came into the home and had a transformative effect on the two brothers, he was awarded the Blue Cross Medal 2018 to celebrate 'every day heroes' of the pet world.

Max said: “They say depression is a black dog, well it took a big black dog called Lemmy to help me through mine.

"I can honestly say I don’t know if I’d be here if it wasn’t for him. I was in a really bad place with my mental health and couldn’t see a way out.

"Lemmy has changed my life around. He brings me so much joy and the bond we have is the reason I get up in the mornings. I just dread to think where we would be without him.

"We’re thrilled to be able to give him the Blue Cross Medal, to show just how amazing he is.”

His mum was delighted with the impact Lemmy had on her sons.

She said: “As a mother, the fact that my son is feeling safe, secure and happy in his life and no longer feeling suicidal means so much, words cannot describe. Lemmy did that, he’s saved him.”

See bluecross.org.