A MEMBER of the Senedd is urging constituents in North Wales to nominate businesses for top rural awards.

Llyr Gruffydd, who represents the region, is encouraging people to get nominating now that the annual Countryside Alliance Awards are open to public nomination.

Mr Gruffydd Plaid Cymru Shadow Minister for Rural Affairs, said they are an "excellent way" to honour those who "keep rural Wales thriving".

The awards, dubbed the 'Rural Oscars', were created because of a need to support and promote rural communities.

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They celebrate people going the extra mile to ensure that the country's food and farming industry, small businesses, traditional skills, forward-thinking enterprises and, most of all, its people, can flourish.

Businesses can be nominated in the following five categories: Local Food Award, Village Shop/Post Office Award, Rural Enterprise Award, Butcher Award, and the Rural Pub Award.

Nominations are open until November 12. Judging will then take place and Wales winners will be announced at the Senedd on February 27, 2024.

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Mr Gruffydd said: "These awards are an excellent way to promote the local businessmen and women who are working hard to keep rural Wales thriving.

"Our produce here in Wales is second to none and there are many community heroes and businesses worthy of recognition, so please get involved and nominate today.

"Let's see if we can bring a title home and tell a positive story about North Wales."

• Nominations are open online at www.countryside-alliance.org.