THE face behind the counter at Blanchland shop and post office and the Old Village Shop in Edmundbyers has been presented with a Countryside Alliance Award.

The 2016 Countryside Alliance Awards, nicknamed the ‘rural Oscars’, saw Dave Hull win a rural hero award in recognition of his community contribution.

In addition to the main awards, the rural hero award is only occasionally awarded to exceptional people who go the extra mile to help the people in their communities.

The 2016 awards were handed out by then Environment Secretary Andrea Leadsom at a parliamentary reception in March, but Mr Hull was unable to attend, so Hexham’s MP Guy Opperman made the presentation on October 6.

Chief executive of the Countryside Alliance, Axel Scheffler, said: “Dave is so central to his corner of Northumberland, running not just one, but two village shops – one at Blanchland and one at Edmundbyers.

“His love of this part of the country sees him do all he can to support local people and provide local jobs.

“The area relies hugely on shooting and conservation, and during the grouse season, Dave will be out on the moors helping on shoot days.

“But more than that, he is a local legend who is committed to ensuring that a remote and seasonally dependent part of the country can thrive year-round.”

Mr Opperman said: “Dave thoroughly deserves this special award as he has gone above and beyond to help and serve his local community. Northumberland is very lucky to have him.”

The 2017 Countryside Alliance Awards are now open to the public for nominations and this year, a new best pub category has been introduced.