Jon has been named as one of PETA's hottest vegans over 50.

A vegan man from the Newark area has been named among the "hottest" in the country.

International animal charity PETA has selected the 12 finalists of its inaugural 2019 UK and Ireland's Hottest Vegan Over 50 Competition, and 64-year-old graphic designer and professional photographer Jon Shepherd, from East Bridgford, has beaten out numerous other entrants from across the country to earn a spot on the list.

A long-time vegetarian and friend to animals, Shepherd went vegan two years ago after a friend showed him the way calves and their mothers suffer in the dairy industry.

The graphic designer and photographer says his driving force in life is compassion. Along with his passion for animal rights, Jon also loves music – he plays the cittern, a 10-stringed instrument, in folk-music sessions and dance bands.

PETA director Elisa Allen said: "Jon Shepherd is a dedicated, compassionate, lifelong hero for animals.

"All the finalists of PETA's Hottest Vegan Over 50 Contest are true testaments to the vitality and joy that come from vegan eating."

The winner will receive a complimentary one-night stay for two people in the world's first all-vegan hotel suite, inside the five-star Hilton London Bankside Hotel.

This year's winner will be announced on Monday August 12.

To vote for Jon, log on to PETA's website here.