THE annual Countryside Alliance Awards are now open to public nomination, and Vale of Clwyd MP Dr James Davies is urging his constituents to get nominating.

Nicknamed the “Rural Oscars”, these awards were borne of a need to support and promote rural communities.

They celebrate people going the extra mile to ensure that rural Britain’s food and farming industry, small businesses, traditional skills, forward-thinking enterprises, and people, can flourish.

Dr Davies said: “The Vale of Clwyd has a rich and deep tradition of rural life. Local businesses and groups across our constituency contain many community heroes. 

"Being nominated for the Countryside Alliance Awards can have a real impact on rural businesses.

“Most importantly, those businesses which go on to become finalists or champions will receive regional and national recognition, strengthening the reputation of their brand.

“The past 17 years have seen thousands of businesses honoured, highlighting the efforts that many rural people go to for the benefit of their communities.

Nominations are open until November 12 - judging will then take place, and national winners will be revealed at the House of Lords next June.

The five categories are local food and drink, village shop/post office, butcher, rural enterprise, and pub.

The applicants are judged on a range of criteria, including their passion and commitment, sense of community, championing produce from the area, and the energy and diversity of their business.