Three Tatton businesses have been named as northern finalists in the 2026 “Rural Oscars”.
The prestigious Countryside Alliance Awards is now in its 19th year and celebrates the best of rural enterprise, heritage and community life.
Businesses can compete for the title in five categories, local food and drink, the village shop or post office, butchers, rural enterprise and pubs.
AJ Boon in Chelford (butcher category), Cheshire Smokehouse in Wilmslow (local food and drink category) and Earlams Village Shop (village shop/Post Office category), have beat off competition from hundreds of other entries to secure their place in the North of England finals. If successful, regional winners will progress to the grand final which will be held at the House of Lords this summer.
Tatton MP Esther McVey said: “These awards are driven by public nomination – and I am proud to have nominated all three – and they give customers the chance to say why their favourite business is so special.
“Reaching this stage is testament to the hard work and service they provide to their community and each of our three regional finalists deserves this recognition, and I wish them all the very best of luck. Voting is now open and I would urge everyone to vote and try and get these businesses to the national final.”
Countryside Alliance Awards Director Sarah Lee commented: “We have been overwhelmed by nominations this year. The secret to the Rural Oscars’ popularity is that they honour the people involved in these businesses and not just their produce or services. They exist to sing the praises of those who work hard to keep our communities and rural economy ticking, but don’t seek the spotlight. Our local produce is second to none and there are many community heroes and businesses worthy of national recognition.
Voting closes on April 6. To vote visit https://www.research.net/r/CAA26NPolitical
