Montgomeryshire's Member of Parliament, Craig Williams, is calling upon the residents of this picturesque region to rally behind their cherished local rural businesses by nominating them for the prestigious Countryside Alliance Awards 2024, affectionately known as the 'Rural Oscars.'

The Countryside Alliance Awards represent an annual toast to the rich tapestry of British food, farming, enterprise, and heritage, all interwoven with the dedication and hard work of our small, community-driven businesses. Now in their 17th year, these awards have become a symbol of honor and recognition, shining a spotlight on the invaluable contributions made by countless individuals to the prosperity of their rural communities.

Nominations for the Countryside Alliance Awards 2024 are being sought across seven distinct categories, with members of the public encouraged to participate:

1. Local Food/Drink: Does the business showcase the local community through the sale of high-quality and diverse local produce?

2. Village Shop/Post Office: Is this establishment the heart and soul of the village, breathing life into the community and boosting the local economy?

3. Butcher: Does the business preserve the art of traditional butchery, or has it introduced innovative twists to this time-honored craft?

4. Rural Enterprise: Is this business a dynamic asset to its community, making a tangible and positive impact?

5. Pub: Does the establishment represent a unique rural enterprise that tells a compelling story about rural life while championing local food and drink?

6. Clarissa Dickson Wright Award: Centered on her belief in advocating, educating, and prioritizing slow food, taste, quality, and support for farmers and producers.

Nominations are now open and will be accepted until the 12th of November 2023. The announcement of regional finalists is scheduled for December 2023, with the grand final set to take place at the House of Lords in June 2024. To nominate your favorite local businesses, visit https://www.countryside-alliance.org/campaigns/countryside-alliance-awards.

MP Craig Williams expressed his enthusiasm for this remarkable celebration of Montgomeryshire's rural excellence, stating:

"The Countryside Alliance Awards provide an exceptional platform for recognizing the dedication of small rural businesses that go the extra mile within their communities. They spotlight those who tirelessly work to ensure the vibrancy of rural Britain."

He continued, "Montgomeryshire boasts unparalleled local produce, and within our constituency, there are countless community heroes and businesses worthy of national acclaim. Last year, two Montgomeryshire businesses made it to the Wales regional finals—an undeniable testament to their hard work and commitment to their communities. Let's unite and bring a Rural Oscar to Montgomeryshire. Please nominate your favorite local businesses!"

As Montgomeryshire's residents rally to celebrate their local heroes, the Rural Oscars promise to once again honor and champion the enduring spirit of rural communities and the businesses that sustain them.

For more information about the Countryside Alliance Awards 2024 and to submit your nominations, visit https://www.countryside-alliance.org/campaigns/countryside-alliance-awards.