Barry John and the VC Gallery's work have been nominated for a national award

Barry John and the VC Gallery are finalists in the People’s Choice category in the 2019 Soldiering On awards.

Barry was invited to a reception in parliament along with the other finalists, and will be invited to the ceremony on April 5.

"Being nominated for this award is a huge honour for the VC Gallery and myself,” he said.

“I feel that our work here in Pembrokeshire is getting recognition not just in West Wales but also throughout the UK and that is down to our innovative approach to care.”

“I would like to thank our MP Stephen Crabb for supporting me and our work and for attending the opening ceremony to further promote our aims in the field of mental health and veteran affairs," said Barry.

This award is voted for by the public and is in recognition of those who have provided a significant contribution in supporting the Armed Forces community.

Stephen Crabb MP said he was delighted to welcome Barry to parliament for the finalists’ reception ahead of the awards.

“The work he has done with veterans and the wider community in Pembrokeshire with the VC Gallery is outstanding and I am pleased that it is being honoured in this way,” said Mr Crabb.

“I hope people from all across our County get behind the Gallery and vote for them in this prestigious award.”

The Preseli-Pembrokeshire MP also introduced Barry to Tobias Ellwood MP, Minister for Armed Forces and Veterans.

“A former soldier himself, Tobias was interested to learn about the great work of the VC Gallery and how their art engagement with soldiers, veterans and members of the public has had such a positive influence on their lives,” said Mr Crabb.

Voting for the Soldiering On awards closes on March 14, to vote for the VC Gallery visit