Seven Norfolk businesses have beat thousands of nominations in an awards scheme known as the "rural Oscars". 

The Countryside Alliance Awards have announced the shortlist for the 2024 awards which highlight the rural businesses that go the extra mile.

The awards, now in their 17th year, judge businesses on a range of criteria including passion, commitment and sense of community.

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Seven Norfolk businesses have been shortlisted for prizes across a range of categories.

Two country pubs, The Brick Kilns and The Fox Inn, have both been shortlisted in the best pub category.

Bramblebee Farms in west Norfolk has been nominated in the local food and drink category.

The farm, owned and run by the Day family, operates a "paddock to plate" policy selling much of its produce online.

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Arthur Howell Butchers in Wells-next-the-Sea has also been nominated for its high-quality butchery.

LRH livery in north Norfolk, which offers a range of horse care and maintenance, and Maxogun.com, an online field sports marketplace place, also made the shortlist.

Heydon Village Tea Room and Gabroldisham Village Store also have the chance to represent the East in the best local shop category.