A pub from just outside Newtown was awarded a 'highly commended' at the recent Countryside Alliance Wales awards ceremony, held at the Senedd.

The prestigious awards, now in their 17th year, aim to celebrate and honor rural businesses that excel in promoting Welsh produce, skills, and rural life.

Among the winners from Montgomeryshire were the Dolau Inn near Newtown, which was highly commended in the ‘best pub’ category for its use of local food sourced from nearby suppliers. The award was accepted by Russell George on behalf of the pub team. 

In the ‘best village shop/ post office’ category, Llanymynech Village Shop took home first place, with owner Duncan Borthwick being praised for his commitment to keeping the shop open for the local community. R H Bunner and Son Ltd in Montgomery also received recognition as a worthy runner-up in the same category. Izzy’s Butchers in Llanrhaeadr-ym-Mochnant was honored with the award for ‘best butcher.’ 

Montgomeryshire MS Russell George, who attended the event, expressed his pride in the local businesses that received awards and high commendations. He stated:

"These awards are an excellent way to promote the local businessmen and women who are working hard to keep rural Wales thriving. Our local produce is second to none, and there are many community heroes and businesses worthy of national recognition.”

Rachel Evans, Director of the Countryside Alliance Wales, said:

"This evening was about celebrating our rural communities and the role that these businesses play in keeping them together – their continued promotion of Welsh produce, skills, and rural life deserve all the credit they can get. The Countryside Alliance is proud to be honouring a group of people who about are passionate about our countryside and about providing quality goods, services, and employment to rural communities and beyond.”