A number of East Antrim businesses are in the running for what have been dubbed the ‘Rural Oscars’.

The Countryside Alliance Awards highlight the rural businesses who go the extra mile for their customers and communities.

The Northern Ireland finalists were announced in January, with each business shortlisted for the impact they make in their local area.

Members of the public have until midnight on March 15 to vote for their favourites in the butcher, local food/drink, pub, rural enterprise, and village shop/post office categories.

The cream of rural businesses from across Northern Ireland have been shortlisted for the prestigious Countryside Alliance Awards. Photo credit: Countryside Alliance Awards

placeholder image — The cream of rural businesses from across Northern Ireland have been shortlisted for the prestigious Countryside Alliance Awards. Photo credit: Countryside Alliance Awards

Votes can be cast online here.

In the running for best butcher are Larne’s Cleaver and Steel Butchery, while Ballylagan Organic Farm in Ballyclare is shortlisted in the food and drink category.

Meanwhile, two Spar branches – Caldwell's in Islandmagee and Spar Parkgate – are up for the best village shop gong.

The Northern Ireland winners will be announced at an awards ceremony in April, and will then go on to represent NI at the national Champions’ Reception at the House of Lords in July.