HALLWOOD Fresh Vegetables in Petrockstowe is one of many west country businesses which have been nominated for the 2008 Countryside Alliance Awards.

The Countryside Alliance Awards give recognition to rural 'heroes' on a national scale.

The awards are public-vote-led, which gives people a chance to explain why they are nominating and why their choice is so special.

The categories are best local food award, best village shop/post office, rural enterprise, Daily Telegraph best traditional business award, and rural hero — which is a new award for 2008.

Political awards include the grassroots award for community campaigning, the Westminster award for bringing the countryside to Parliament, and the rural vision award, for the politician with the countryside's future at heart.

Alison Hawes, regional director for the South West, said: 'This is a great region for produce, enterprise and community spirit, so let's show the nation the best we have to offer.'

Nominations close on October 27. To nominate or view previous winners, visit http://www.countrysideallianceawards.co.uk">www.countrysideallianceawards.co.uk