Four businesses in Powys have been named as finalists in the Countryside Alliance Awards and will attend an awards ceremony at the Senedd.

Multiple businesses throughout Montgomeryshire have been chosen as finalists in the annual celebration of rural British food and farming, enterprise and heritage.

The contenders who have made the final of the awards are Izzy’s Butchers in Llanrhaeadr-ym-Mochnant, Llanymynech Village Shop, Dolau Inn, R H Bunner & Son in Montgomery, Mantles Village Shop in Trefegwlys and Cwm Fedw Country Sports & Hel’s Kitchen in Penybont Fawr.

Helen Jones of Cwm Fedw Country Sports said: “I’m surprised, elated and proud to be nominated for the Countryside Alliance Awards.

“It’s very validating, since it’s a nomination that has come from the goodwill of our customers and their positive feedback. As we’re only a small rural business, to be nominated on this kind of platform is a big deal, not just for us but for any business nominated. These are the kinds of businesses that sustain rural areas.

“For both businesses and communities, it goes towards putting us on the map.”

Now in its sixteenth year, the Countryside Alliance Awards have become a staple of rural business recognition, receiving thousands of nominations driven by the public, offering customers the chance to celebrate their favourite businesses and say why they are worthy of national acclaim. The businesses nominated will attend an awards ceremony will be held at the Senedd on 27 February 2024.

Montgomeryshire MS Russell George said: “These awards are an excellent way to promote the local businessmen and women who are working hard to keep rural Britain thriving .

“Our local produce is second to none and there are many community heroes and businesses worthy of national recognition.

“Congratulations to Izzy’s Butchers, Dolau Inn, Llanymynech Village Shop, R H Bunner & Son, Mantles Village Shop and Cwm Fedw Country Sports, Hel’s Kitchen on making it onto the shortlist to be in contention for a Welsh title.

“These businesses prove that we have brilliant people providing brilliant services across Montgomeryshire. I’m getting behind these local businesses, and I hope that they can bring home the silverware. I’m also encouraging constituents to vote for these fantastic local companies.”

Voting for the 2024 Countryside Alliance Awards is currently open and will remain so until February 10.