Rushlake Green Village Stores, which also operates a branch in Heathfield, has been announced as the South East regional winner in the Village Shop/Post Office category at the 2026 Countryside Alliance Awards — commonly referred to as the Rural Oscars.
Award recognition in Parliament
The achievement was marked at a Champions’ Reception held in Parliament, where regional winners gathered and had the opportunity to vie for the national title. Sussex Weald MP Nusrat Ghani met staff from the Rushlake Green team at the event to offer her congratulations.
"We are incredibly lucky to have so many fantastic rural businesses in Sussex Weald... They are key assets to our local communities and are the cornerstones of our rural life."
The MP also praised the district's record in the scheme, referencing previous local successes while commending the Rushlake Green staff for their accomplishment.
What the prize means locally
Small rural shops often act as more than retail outlets: they provide social contact, essential services and a focus for village life. Recognition at a regional level highlights the role of community-run or independent shops in sustaining rural economies and local connectivity.
- Shop: Rushlake Green Village Stores
- Category: Village Shop/Post Office
- Branch: Heathfield (additional branch)
- Award event: Countryside Alliance Awards – Champions’ Reception, House of Lords
Context and background
The Countryside Alliance Awards celebrate businesses and initiatives that support British food, farming, heritage and community life. Regional winners are selected across categories and then compete for national recognition. East Sussex has had previous winners in recent years, demonstrating an ongoing presence in the awards.
| Category | Regional winner (South East) | Noted detail |
|---|---|---|
| Village Shop/Post Office | Rushlake Green Village Stores | Also operates a branch in Heathfield; staff attended parliamentary reception |
For the communities they serve, such accolades can help attract volunteers, customers and potentially open up new local partnerships. They also reinforce the value of supporting independent rural businesses, particularly in villages where alternative retail options are limited.
While the national winners will be decided from among the regional champions, the recognition already gives Rushlake Green a higher profile and offers a moment to celebrate the efforts of the shop's team and its supporters.
If you are involved with a village store, post office or community enterprise and want to learn more about entering future awards, information is available via the Countryside Alliance website, which outlines entry criteria and deadlines for the next round.
This report was prepared from details released following the awards reception and statements made by the Sussex Weald MP at the event.
