West Sussex village shop in line for major award - a 'Rural Oscar'

Kirdford Village Stores has been shortlisted in The Countryside Alliance Awards 2026 and is among six in the ‘best village shop/post office’ category. A public vote – see https://www.research.net/r/CAA26SECA – is now being held before the winners are announced in mid April. They will then go forward to represent south east England and be considered for the national championship of the coveted 'Rural Oscars' at a House of Lords champions’ reception in July.

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 19th year, and, says the Countryside Alliance, “are a vital way of celebrating rural businesses that go the extra mile and support their local economy.”

Countryside Alliance campaigns director Sarah Lee said: “Once more, we have been blown away by the number of nominations this year. So many amazing 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.”