FOUR rural businesses who have picked up regional awards are looking forward to a competition’s grand final.

An organic farm from County Durham and three businesses in Northumberland have picked up North- East titles in the Countryside Alliance Awards. They are up against other regional winners to bid for the British title.

The local food award was presented to Piercebridge Organic Farm, Piercebridge, near Darlington.

Head judge Steve Clark said: “Piercebridge Organics has to be the winner, not because they are organic, but because of their total dedication to local food, sourced and produced locally including game, meat, pies, soups and cakes.”

The village shop and post office award for the North- East went to Belsay Post Office and Shop, in Belsay, Northumberland.

The traditional business section was won by RG Foreman and Sons butchers, in Norhamon- Tweed, Northumberland.

The rural enterprise award was won by the Country Barn, near Morpeth.