The Countryside Alliance held its annual ‘Rural Oscars’ awards ceremony at the House of Lords, where several rural businesses were crowned national champions.
Three Welsh businesses received awards in their respective categories. Cwm Farm Charcuterie in Glamorgan was highly commended in the local food and drink category, and Bargoed Farm in Ceredigion was highly commended in the rural enterprise category. Izzy’s Butchers in Powys received the coveted Clarissa Dickson Wright Award, which centres on her belief in campaigning, educating and supporting our farmers and producers.
The Countryside Alliance Awards – now in their 17th year – recognise rural businesses across five categories, including ‘best pub’, ‘best village shop/ post office’, ‘best butcher’, ‘best for local food a drink’ and the ‘rural enterprise award’. These businesses go the extra mile within their communities, supporting the local economy and championing local goods and services.
Thousands of nominations from around the country were whittled down via a public vote, with the final few being honoured at awards ceremonies in Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland, respectively.
The final awards ceremony was held on Tuesday 25 June at the House of Lords, sponsored by the Earl of Leicester. The awards were presented by Countryside Alliance Chairman, The Rt Hon Lord Herbert of South Downs, and attended by a number of peers.
On Cwm Farm Charcuterie, the esteemed judging panel said:
“Despite a major setback with TB-infected pigs, the farm, led by its determined owner, adapted and continued operations. The farm’s produce has gained international acclaim and even orders from British royalty. True grit and determination is the story behind this business.”
On Bargoed Farm, the esteemed judging panel said:
“The Thomas family are a force of nature with a vision to provide sustainable farming and tourism while supporting their local community. With the (renewable) energy to keep diversifying, there is nothing this couple can’t or won’t do to drive this rural enterprise forward.”
Izzy, of Izzy’s Butchers, said:
“It means so much to be awarded this name. Clarissa was an inspiration to me growing up, so I’m absolutely delighted with it.”
Sarah Lee, Director of Policy for the Countryside Alliance, said:
“This important ceremony was about celebrating the hard work of all those behind rural businesses who are so obviously passionate about providing quality goods, services, and employment in our precious countryside. At the regional – and now the national – level, the Countryside Alliance is proud to be honouring these businesses and the individuals behind them, who rose to the top amongst the countless other worthy businesses nominated.”
