Bruce & Smith call on locals to showcase Aberdeenshire's finest in best rural retailer awards

11.06.54am UTC (GMT +0000) Fri 14th Sep 2007

Aberdeenshire has some of the best local produce in the country

Local MPs, Malcolm Bruce MP for Gordon and Robert Smith MP for West Aberdeenshire & Kincardine, are encouraging local people to submit nominations for the annual Countryside Alliance 'Best Rural Retailer' awards.

The awards aim to recognise and celebrate the UK's small independent retailers, who often act as ambassadors for their communities as well as promoters of local produce. Malcolm Bruce is a strong supporter of our rural retailers and believes that, with the backing of local people, they will have a strong chance of gaining national recognition through these prestigious awards.

Malcolm Bruce said:

"Here in Aberdeenshire we are fortunate to have some of the country's best independent producers and retailers. Our local climate combined with fantastic countryside enables us to produce an amazing array of fine foods renowned across Britain including: beef and other meat, dairy, oats, shortbread, ice cream, preserves and many more.

"This is a fantastic opportunity to showcase the best that the North East has to offer and I would encourage all local people to consider submitting a nomination."

Robert Smith added "I know how much many constituents value local shops and businesses. This is an opportunity to recognise the special value these local businesses provide and to reward them for the benefit they bring to the community."

Anyone can nominate a local retailer in one of four categories: best local food retailer; best diversification; best village shop / post office; best traditional business. Nomination forms can be found online at www.bestruralretailer.co.uk. The closing date for nominations is 6 October 2007.

ENDS

Notes to Editors:

These are the third annual Countryside Alliance Best Rural Retailer awards. The nomination phase closes on Saturday 6 October 2007 and regional judging will then take place. Regional winners will be announced in December and four national winners will be named at a reception in the House of Lords in February 2008.