WEST Country Blacksmiths, at Allerford Forge, has been shortlisted to win a Countryside Alliance Award in the category of Rural Enterprise.

The awards, now in their 15th year, have become the definitive rural business award to win, being driven by public nomination. Customers are invited to tell the Countryside Alliance why their favourite businesses are worthy of the national acclaim.

Over 17,000 nominations were received this year and West Country Blacksmiths is a regional finalist.

The team produces work from minor metalwork repairs to decorative and large scale metalwork projects, all to the very highest standard. The skill and creative talents of the craftsmen have earned a reputation nationally – last year saw them win staircase of the year, be runners up in two national design and construction awards, and feature on Grand Designs house of the year.

Countryside Alliance Awards director Sarah Lee said: “The secret to the Rural Oscars’ popularity is that they honour the people involved in these businesses and not just their produce or services. They exist to sing the praises of those who work hard to keep our communities and rural economy ticking, but don’t seek to spotlight.

“These awards provide a cause for celebration in the time of great uncertainty in the countryside. Our local produce is second to none and there are many community heroes and businesses worthy of national recognition.”

She added that the awards had been “overwhelmed” by nominations this year.

Kieren Roberts, of West Country Blacksmiths, said: “We would like to thank the people who nominated us for this award. We work tirelessly to serve our local community and without the support we receive we would not be in business.

“Although we are privileged to have worked on some high profiles projects nationally, the vast majority of our work is Somerset based and always will be. If we can ever be of assistance we are only a phone call away.”

West Country Blacksmiths will shortly be welcoming the judging panel to Allerford ahead of the English regional champions being announced in May. The regional winners will be propelled in to the grand final, to be held in June.