A new Somerset awards scheme celebrating projects that protect and improve the countryside has received backing from rural housing specialist Hastoe Housing Association.

Local charity CPRE Somerset has launched its "Love Your Countryside" awards to recognise environmental and community initiatives across the county. The scheme has now secured sponsorship from Hastoe, which specialises in delivering affordable homes in rural areas.

Ulrike Maccariello, Development Director at Hastoe, said the organisation was pleased to support the awards and highlight projects helping rural communities thrive.

She said: "As a leading rural housing specialist, our focus is on building high-quality, affordable homes that help to create sustainable communities and preserve the local environment.

"The first-ever CPRE Somerset Awards are an excellent opportunity for us to demonstrate our long-established commitment to working in partnership with the local communities of Somerset. I am really looking forward to seeing the award entries, which will no doubt showcase the individuals and organisations that are really helping this county to thrive."

Awards celebrating Somerset countryside projects

The "Love Your Countryside" awards aim to shine a spotlight on projects that improve the environment while supporting communities across Somerset.

According to organisers, anyone in Somerset can apply or nominate a project.

Becky Collier, Manager of CPRE Somerset, said the awards were launched as part of the organisation's centenary celebrations.

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She said: "CPRE, the Campaign to Protect Rural England, has always been a strong advocate for more affordable housing in our villages, to meet local need.

"Hastoe is a well-respected rural housing provider, well-known for their small scale, environmentally sensitive affordable housing developments which help to keep our villages alive. It's a great match.

"Our new awards are our way of sharing and celebrating the brilliant projects and people that make our Somerset countryside such a special place. We launched our new awards as the perfect way to mark CPRE's 100th birthday. Joining up with Hastoe for our 'Love Your Countryside' awards really is the icing on our 100th birthday cake."

Award categories and nominations

There are five categories open to entries:

• Housing solution award – recognising sustainable and inspiring housing projects in rural Somerset
• Rooftop solar award – highlighting well-designed solar installations that save energy and work with the local environment
• Blue or green spaces award – celebrating projects that improve spaces such as parks, woodlands, rivers, ponds, wetlands, allotments and community gardens
• Countryside access award – recognising initiatives that make the countryside more accessible and inclusive
• Countryside changemaker award – celebrating individuals or groups making a positive difference in Somerset's countryside

Organisers say projects of all sizes can be nominated.

The closing date for nominations is Wednesday, 30 April 2026. Further details about the awards are available on the CPRE Somerset website.

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