THREE rural businesses in Wiltshire have been shortlisted for the prestigious Countryside Alliance Awards.

They are the Burton Farm Shop at Burton near Chippenham, the Gourmet Goat Farm at East Farm, Avebury, and The Farm at Avebury at Galteemore Farm, Beckhampton. 

The Burton Farm Shop and the Gourmet Goat Farmer are both shortlisted in the local food and drink category of the awards, while The Farm at Avebury is shortlisted in the rural enterprise category.

Wiltshire Times: The outdoor seating area at The Farm at Avebury.The outdoor seating area at The Farm at Avebury. (Image: The Farm at Avebury)

They are among 27 rural businesses from across the South West of England that have been shortlisted for the awards, after thousands of nominations from across the country were whittled down to a final few.

Winners will be chosen via a public vote, and they will go on to represent the region at the House of Lords in the national champions reception in June of 2024.

Countryside Alliance Director of Policy Sarah Lee said: “We've received a wealth of nominations from the public this year, showcasing a multitude of exceptional businesses in the South West of England.

“Each business plays a meaningful role in their community, and what sets the Rural Oscars apart is their emphasis on honouring the individuals behind these businesses, rather than just their products or services.

“Given the challenging circumstances faced by many rural businesses around the country, it's essential for all of us to demonstrate support in any way possible. We encourage as many people as possible to get voting today.” 

The ‘Rural Oscars’- as they are commonly known - are now in their 17th year. The Awards celebrate rural businesses that go the extra mile, support their local economy and are the unsung heroes in every community. 

The businesses are judged on a range of criteria including their passion and commitment, sense of community, championing local food and the energy and diversity of their business. 

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. 

There are five categories including, ‘best pub’, ‘best village shop/ post office’, ‘best butcher’, ‘best for local food a drink’ and the ‘rural enterprise award’. 

You can vote for one business in all of the categories, or for just one individual business in their respective category.