Coln Community Stores, a beloved village shop and café nestled in the heart of Coln St Aldwyns near Cirencester, has been proudly shortlisted for the esteemed Countryside Alliance Awards—often dubbed the ‘rural Oscars.’
Marking its 20th anniversary this year, the Countryside Alliance Awards spotlight outstanding rural businesses across the UK that significantly contribute to local economies and communities. The awards recognize unsung heroes who go above and beyond to enrich rural life.
The competition begins regionally, featuring five categories: Butchers, Pub, Local Food and Drink, Rural Enterprise, and Village Shop/Post Office. In the south-west region, Coln Community Stores has secured a coveted spot on the shortlist in the Village Shop/Post Office category.
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Collectively owned by over 250 villagers, Coln Community Stores serves as a vital community hub offering a shop, café, and post office. Chair of the Management Committee, Yvette Kirk, expressed her enthusiasm: “We’re thrilled to be shortlisted. Our store is deeply valued by Coln St Aldwyn and neighboring communities as a cornerstone of rural life. Many customers share that our presence makes a real difference to their daily lives, inspiring us to continue serving them well. We hope the community will rally their support in the voting.”
The competition is stiff, with five contenders across the south-west, including shops from Devon, Dorset, and Wiltshire. Additionally, Knead Bakery in Cheltenham represents Gloucestershire in the Local Food and Drink category, competing against businesses from Cornwall, Devon, and Somerset.
Voting is currently open and closes on Monday, April 6. After regional winners are selected, national champions will be announced at a ceremony in the House of Lords this July. Supporters are encouraged to cast their votes through the official Countryside Alliance voting website.