Nominations for what has been dubbed 'the rural Oscars' are being invited now.

The Countryside Alliance Awards are described as an "annual celebration of British food and farming, enterprise and heritage through our small hard-working businesses".

Shortlists for each of the categories are driven by public nominations.

Categories this year include: Local food and drink; village shop/Post Office; butcher; rural enterprise; and pub.

Judges will not just be looking for evidence of great produce, customer service and innovation, but stories of how businesses serve their communities

Countryside Alliance Awards director Sarah Lee said: “These awards are a fantastic way to applaud our rural businesses for all the hard work that they do to help keep our local communities alive. It is such an honour to be able to recognise the rural businesses that represent the best in Britain’s entrepreneurial spirit and who do a great job to promote our beautiful countryside.

"I would urge everyone who wants to support their local businesses and communities to nominate them and give them the boost they so richly deserve.”

Nominations are now open and will close on December 9 with regional champions announced in May 2019. The grand final will then be held in June 2019 at the House of Lords.

Nominations can be made online at the Countryside Alliance website.