Businesses from food and drink producers to tourism attractions, along with community organisations have been shortlisted for the awards which were launched last year by Norfolk County Council in partnership with the Royal Norfolk Agricultural Association (RNAA).

The winners will be named at a ceremony at the showcase event on the county’s calendar on Thursday 26 June.

Finalists across the nine categories this year are:

Best Rural Community Initiative, sponsored by Aviva Community Fund – Helping Hands (Thrive and The Pantry), Folk in a Field

Best Farming Innovation Adopter, sponsored by Lovewell Blake – Fischer Farms, Pearn Wyatt & Son

Best Food and Drink Producer, sponsored by Fountain Fresh Imports – Nurtured in Norfolk, Barsham Brewery

Norfolk’s ‘Unsung Hero’, sponsored by Poultec – Ben Eagle (RuralPod Media), David Holliday (Moon Gazer Ale), Neil Sands (Sands Agricultural Machinery)

Best Farming Champion, sponsored by CLG Norfolk – Richard Hirst, Michael Balls, David Lyles

Best Emerging Talent, sponsored by PlantGrow – Henry Stanford, Abigail Mallet

Best Rural Tourism Attraction, sponsored by Thursford – Pensthorpe, Watatunga Wildlife Reserve

Best Sustainable Land Use, sponsored by Birketts – The Wendling Beck Project, North Norfolk Coastal Group

Best Rural Business, sponsored by New Anglia Growth Hub – Massingham Stores & Post Office, Algy’s Farm Shop, The Angel Inn Loddon

Cllr Fabian Eagle, Cabinet Member for Economic Growth at Norfolk County Council, said: “Small independent businesses and community organisations bring diversity to our villages and towns and help attract visitors, and these awards recognise the important role they play.

“The Royal Norfolk Show is the most prestigious event on the county’s social calendar and the perfect place to celebrate our rural champions.”

RNAA Chief Executive Mark Nicholas added: “The RNAA has been thrilled to once again work with Norfolk County Council to shine a spotlight on rural businesses, projects and people. The finalists are testament to the quality and commitment of so many of our rural communities. We look forward to hosting the awards ceremony at the Royal Norfolk Show”.