Kington Post Office has been named as a finalist in the Countryside Alliance Awards

It is in the village shop/post office category for the Midlands and will be up against four other competitors.

They include Barrowden Village Shop in Rutland, Hopes of Longdown in Herefordshire, Sulgrave Village Shop in Oxfordshire and Vine and Co in Shropshire.

The next stage of the Countryside Alliance Awards will be opening soon, when they put the decision to a public vote, giving everyone  the chance to vote for their favourite businesses.

The public vote opens on Monday, March 3.

The Countryside Alliance Awards, often known as the "Rural Oscars," celebrate rural businesses, communities, and individuals who make significant contributions to the countryside and are prestigious to win.

Run across the whole of the United Kingdom, they recognise and reward rural businesses and individuals who go above and beyond in their contributions to the community in five categories.

The Awards help promote rural businesses, giving them a platform to reach a wider audience and highlight the importance of community spirit and the vital roles these businesses play in maintaining the fabric of rural life. 

Kington Postmaster Tim Allen said: “We're both surprised and thrilled that the post office has been shortlisted for a Countryside Alliance Award. It’s a real honour to be recognised, especially as these awards celebrate rural businesses and the vital role they play in their communities.

“We know that the post office is an essential part of Kington, both for residents and local businesses. The recent rejection of our application for a Banking Hub further underscores just how critical our service is, not just for the town itself but also for the surrounding villages that rely on the small shops and businesses in Kington.

“In my view this nomination isn’t just about our post office; it’s about recognising the importance of the services we provide to the whole community. If people are willing to vote for us, they’ll also be voting for the continued value of these vital services in rural areas like ours.

“Fingers crossed for the next stage!”