Chris Bullock, Manager of Farmborough Community Shop, has been named as one of the Finalists in a national award to recognise some of the most inspiring community businesses in the UK.

Farmborough Community Shop is a voluntary-run, community-owned business, which opened its doors for the first time on Saturday, 30th June 2018 after six years of planning and fundraising. It offers a range of staples, alongside unique local products and gifts, as well as providing a space or hub for local people to meet over fresh coffee, tea and homemade cake.

The community’s work is now being recognised by national charity, the Plunkett Foundation, an organisation which supports rural communities across the UK to tackle the issues they face through community business.

Chris Bullock is one of three finalists in the People’s Choice Award, which recognises an outstanding individual who has contributed so much to their community business. The award is sponsored by Hastoe Housing Association.

Sam Ross, Company Secretary for Farmborough Community Shop, said: “Chris’ commitment to the shop is continuing to bring in new customers and new volunteers. His keen eye on the health of the business also helps the shop committee to prioritise initiatives that allow our business to grow, as well as support our local community.

“Our shop is still learning to find its feet, but Chris’ enthusiasm and ability to adapt to change cannot be underestimated in these early stages of our business. The committee is indebted to Chris for his unfailing support in helping us to achieve the dream that was so long in the making.

We are proud that he has been a crucial part of our early success, and would like to recognise him for his important part in this, which has changed our village for the better.”

Twenty-one community businesses across the UK have been shortlisted for the 2019 Rural Community Business Awards. Finalists range from farms and pubs to cafés, shops and a woodland.

James Alcock, Chief Executive of the Plunkett Foundation, said: “Each and every one of the finalists are a great example of people working together to make life in their own community better. Community businesses in rural areas can be a lifeline to the people they serve. The issues of isolation and loss of amenities are well known, and these awards show that community businesses, of many different kinds, do so much as they tackle these issues.

“Community businesses are breathing new life into rural communities across the UK and it is an enormous pleasure for the Plunkett Foundation to be able to celebrate some of the outstanding individual stories with these awards.”

The Plunkett Foundation is marking its centenary year. Since 2013, the charity has been recognising community businesses with their annual awards. This year, the awards feature seven categories – all of which celebrate the achievements of groups across the country who have come together in community organisations and found the answer to the challenges they face through community businesses.

The awards are sponsored by Hastoe Housing Association, who specialise in providing sustainable, affordable homes to enable local people to remain within their communities.

George Parkinson, Operations Director at Hastoe Housing Association, said: “As England’s leading provider of affordable rural homes, we know there is much more to creating communities than just building homes. Community businesses often provide the only opportunity for people living in rural areas to come together. In providing work, volunteering opportunities and much needed services, they create the conditions for communities to thrive.

“These Awards play a vital role in recognising many of the great projects, businesses and people who continue to make a positive difference in their community.”

The awards are being presented in partnership with Power to Change, the independent trust that supports community businesses in England, and the Esmée Fairbairn Foundation, which supports organisations that are building an inclusive, creative and sustainable society.

The awards ceremony will be held next Wednesday, 27th November at Burlington House in London. Winners will take away a cheque for £250.