South Shropshire MP gets behind ‘Rural Oscars’ and calls for local nominations

A rural Shropshire MP is calling on residents to put forward the businesses, pubs, and community heroes for the Countryside Alliance Awards 2027.

Get the latest headlines delivered straight to your inbox with the Shropshire Star’s free newsletter

Known as the ‘Rural Oscars’ the annual awards is now in its 20th year and celebrates the very best of rural life, from village shops and family butchers to community pubs, and from farm shops to innovative rural enterprises.

Nominated by the public, the awards give recognition to the people and businesses who go above and beyond for their communities and keep the countryside thriving.

At the 2026 awards, a number of Shropshire businesses, including Vine & Co in Church Stretton, the White Horse Pub in Clun, and Jackie’s Prees Stores were either finalists or highly commended.

The Castle Inn in Bletchley near Market Drayton also won the Midlands Pub Champion title at the 2026 awards.

The 2027 awards have been again backed by South Shropshire MP, Stuart Anderson, who is urging his constituents to nominate local businesses.

He said: “Celebrating their 20th anniversary, the Countryside Alliance Awards, known as the Rural Oscars, are a fantastic opportunity to shine a light on residents and businesses in South Shropshire who work tirelessly to support our rural communities.

“Whether it's a brilliant local pub, a hardworking village shop, or an inspiring rural enterprise, I know we have so much to be proud of here in South Shropshire.

“From the butcher who knows every customer by name to the restaurant that champions local food and drink, these businesses are lifelines where friendships are formed and traditions are kept alive. I encourage everyone to nominate someone. Let's celebrate our rural champions and see if we can bring a national title back home to South Shropshire."

Director of Policy and Campaigns at the Countryside Alliance Sarah Lee said: ““Rural Britain runs on the dedication and resilience of its small businesses. They are not just shops or pubs - they are lifelines, where friendships are formed, traditions are kept alive and communities are sustained.

“The Countryside Alliance Awards are about recognising those contributions and telling a positive story about the countryside to the whole nation. It takes just a few minutes to nominate, but your support can make a lasting difference for the businesses and people you value most."

To make a nomination, visit: www.countryside-alliance.org/awards