The voting for Rutland and Stamford's favourite independent shop 2024-5 has now opened, following over 250 nominations. 

Shops and businesses from across Rutland, Stamford, South Kesteven and the Harborough Villages have been nominated for the award. There were so many entries that two additional categories had to be added: favourite bookshop and favourite children and babies shop. 

Votes have now opened, with voting closing on Friday 31st January 2025, before the winners are announced in February. Voting will take place on Alicia Kearns' website. 

The final 15 categories for voting are: 

• Beauty, pampering and wellness, 
• Bookshop, 
• Butcher, 
• Cafe, 
• Children and babies, 
• Clothing and accessories, 
• Craft and hobby, 
• Farm and produce, 
• Food and drink, 
• Garden Centre, 
• Gifts and stationery, 
• Homeware, 
• Pharmacy, 
• Village Shop, 
• Special Commendation 

The competition, which was launched by MP for Rutland and Stamford Alicia Kearns, is to highlight and celebrate the incredible and varied independent businesses of Rutland and Stamford. 

The competition, says Kearns, is not just to celebrate but to also help raise the profile of local independent businesses across Rutland, Stamford, South Kesteven and the Harborough Villages.  

"We are fortunate to have so many wonderful independent businesses locally," said Kearns, "but they need our support.  

"This competition is a small way of playing my part by celebrating and raising their profile. Thousands of you voted last year, so please do get behind out local businesses [...] and give them the recognition they deserve."