They have each received great reviews from their customers and now three popular farm shops in Northumberland are vying for the same accolade at the Countryside Alliance Awards, which are known as the ‘rural Oscars.’
After the first round of voting saw thousands of nominations come in, the contenders have been narrowed down to a final 25, with five businesses in each category and in the running for the Village Shop/Post Office title is The Village Farm Shop in Embleton, Northumberland, along with its regional neighbours: Chatton Village Store and Lowick village Store, who are now all relying on votes from their loyal customers to see off its rivals and win.
The businesses are judged on a range of criteria, including their passion and commitment, sense of community, championing local produce, and the energy and diversity of their business. The ‘Rural Oscars’ are now in their 17th year, and are a vital way of celebrating rural businesses that go the extra mile and support their local economy.
Being nominated for the Countryside Alliance Awards can have a real impact on rural businesses. The businesses which go on to become champions will receive regional and national recognition, strengthening the reputation of their brand and now the highly rated stores in Embleton, Chatton and Lowick are all up for the Village Store/Post Office title at this year’s event.
The public vote for the final is now open, here. You can vote for one business in each category, with the only nominees for the Village Shop award outside of Northumberland being from Skipton and York; meaning there is a strong chance the silverware is coming back to Northumberland.
Sarah Lee, Director of Policy & Campaigns at the Countryside Alliance, said: “Yet again, we have been taken aback by the volume of nominations this year. So many wonderful businesses have been sent in by the public. Every business has an important story to tell – it’s so important that they are recognised. The secret to the Rural Oscars’ popularity is that they honour the people involved in these businesses, and not just their produce or services.
“At this critical time for so many rural businesses, it is vital we all show our support in whatever way we can. We encourage as many people as possible to get voting. When you have voted, please share the link with friends and families.”
View news Source: https://www.chroniclelive.co.uk/whats-on/food-drink-news/countryside-alliance-awards-farm-shops-31124332
