Julian Smith MP is delighted by the news that 7 businesses from Skipton and Ripon are finalists in the Countryside Alliance Awards, across 5 categories.  

The following businesses from the constituency are in contention for a Rural Oscar:  

• Pub – The Marton Arms, Ingleton and The Tennants Arms, Skipton 
• Village Shop – Dale Stores, Harrogate and Chandler Store, Pateley Bridge 
• Rural Enterprise – Brimham Rocks Adventure Farm, Hartwith 
• Butcher – Farmison & Co, Ripon 

• Local Food – Courtyard Dairy, Settle 

The Awards are the Countryside Alliance’s annual celebration of food & farming, enterprise and heritage. Now in their fifteenth year, they are driven by public nominations. Over 18,000 nominations were received this year, so all the businesses nominated have done extremely well to reach the regional 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 products or services. They exist to sing the praises of these who work hard to keep our communities and rural economies 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.” 

Julian Smith said, “I am delighted to see so many businesses from the constituency in the regional finals. This is a testament to the hard work and service they provide to their community, and to the strength and depth of businesses in our area. I will be following their progress through the competition with pride and interest.”