The awards are also known as the ‘Rural Oscars’

Two businesses in Cambridgeshire have been nominated for a prestigious award. The Countryside Alliance Awards, also known as the ‘Rural Oscars’ have returned for its 19th year and has revealed the “very best” businesses across the East of England that have been shortlisted.

There are five different categories and the businesses are judges 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 vote is now open to the public to help support their favourite business and help them win their category and reach the next stage.

The Longhorn Farm Shop, which can be found just outside of Cottenham, has been nominated for the best for local food and drink. The family-run business is known for providing “a wide variety of high-quality products” including meat items such as traditional Longhorn beef that is sourced from the Brookfield Herd at the Cuckoo Hill Farm.

Alongside its butchers, there is also a shop that sells sweet treats, sauces, fresh fruit, and juices as well as ready meals that are prepared on-site. After shopping around, you can visit the Coffee Hut for a hot drink and homemade cake while enjoying the views of the countryside.

The Elton Village Store is up for the best village store or post office award. Found on Middle Street in the quaint village of Elton, the store has already won the award before in 2023.

The store offers a range of essential items for those living in the village including fresh bread and butchers quality meat. The shop also stocks plenty of vegan and gluten free products as well as fruit and vegetables from the local area.

Sarah Lee, Director of Policy and Campaigns at the Countryside Alliance, 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. We encourage as many people as possible to get voting. When you have voted, please share the link with friends and families.”

To vote for your favourite businesses that have been shortlisted, you can visit the Countryside Alliance website.