Trawden Forest Community Shop has been crowned the winner of the Keeping it Local Award kindly sponsored by the Co-op at the 2026 Rural Community Business Awards.

The community-owned shop is celebrated for its contribution to the local economy, championing local suppliers and for providing an outstanding service for the benefit of local people.

Winners were announced at an awards ceremony held at the Royal Society of Chemistry in London.

Sara Swann, one of the shop’s volunteer directors, said: “We are absolutely delighted and overwhelmed by winning this award. It’s great to get the recognition for all our volunteers doing an amazing job working so hard. We are so proud of our innovative community shop and we are grateful that Plunkett UK recognised the difference we make locally.”

placeholder image — Trawden Forest Community Shop

More than 80 community businesses made it to the finals of various categories in this year’s awards.

For anyone wanting to visit the Volunteer-run Trawden Community Shop, it’s on Church Street, and is open seven days a week, 8am – 6pm, 4pm on Sundays and Bank Holidays.

Molly Ralphson, volunteer co-ordinator said: “If anyone is interested in becoming involved in our fantastic shop, please do get in touch. It takes a lot of people to keep the shop running and we would love some more people to help out. Hours are flexible, there is no minimum time commitment and you will be fully trained.”

To find out more please contact [email protected] or WhatsApp Molly on 07583349362.

Plunkett UK is a national charity which supports people in rural areas to set up and run a wide range of businesses in community ownership.