Nominations are now open for the ninth New Forest Awards with a closing date of 19 June.

Launched by The New Forest National Park Authority and Country Land and Business Association, they are supported by the New Forest Agricultural Show Society and Moore Barlow.

The winners will be crowned at a ceremony and drinks reception at the New Forest and Hampshire County Show on 27 July.

Individuals, businesses and organisations can nominate themselves or be nominated by others, but must be living, working or practising within the New Forest Awards area. Application forms are available at www.newforestnpa.gov.uk/newforestawards.

Tim Bamford, regional director of CLA South East, said: “The CLA is once again proud to be supporting these awards, which highlight the hugely important role played by farmers and other rural businesses in managing the landscape and helping our communities prosper in the New Forest and across Hampshire.

“We’re delighted that the awards are returning this year to honour even more rural success stories, and we look forward to crowning the winners at the show in July.”

Alison Barnes, chief executive of the New Forest National Park Authority said: “Enabling a living, working forest to thrive into the future relies on great partnerships. In the last few months, the term ‘Team New Forest’ has really come to the fore, with an increasing diversity of people working together to help the National Park to remain a beautiful, thriving haven for wildlife and people.

“These awards champion local people whose dedication to a sustainable New Forest really shines through – especially in the face of the climate and nature emergencies and the pandemic.”

Nominations are invited for the following categories:

• Young Farmer/Commoner of the Year (aged 40 and under)
• Best Supporter of Local Produce
• Sustainability Champion
• Young Environmental Champion (aged 25 and under)
• Rural Diversification
• Land Management

For full details of criteria and how to apply, visit www.newforestnpa.gov.uk/newforestawards.