HERO, a two-year-old American Akita, is our pet of the week.

He lives with his owners Nikol Melling and Mark Ward in Glamis Close, Leigh, and is a treasured member of their family.

Nikol, 24, said: “Hero is a wonderful dog and really good with children.

“He may look big and scary but he is a big softie at heart and loves to chase his tail.

“Hero is very giddy and lovable, always jumping up at you and giving you big, slobbery kisses.

"But we would not change him for the world, even if he is a bit of a hooligan.”

If you want your pet to feature send a picture of them with your name, contact details and information about your pet and the photograph to newdesk@leighjournal.co.uk.