Four Norfolk businesses are among the regional finalists in an awards scheme known as the "rural Oscars".

The Countryside Alliance Awards, now in their 16th year, have shortlisted 21 businesses from the East of England across five categories.

They include Arthur Howell Butchers in Wells, in the Best Regional Butcher category, while the Saracen’s Head in Wolterton and the White Swan in Gressenhall are in the running for the Best Regional Pub award.

And Walsingham Farm Shop in Little Walsingham was shortlisted in the Best Regional Local Food/Drink category which also included two businesses just across the Suffolk border: Truly Traceable in Halesworth and Maisebrooke Farm Shop in Beccles.

The winners, chosen via a public vote on the Countryside Alliance website, will represent the Eastern region at a national reception in the House of Lords on May 17.

Businesses are judged on criteria including their passion and commitment, sense of community, and championing local food.

Awards director Sarah Lee said: "These awards provide a cause for celebration in a time of great uncertainty for many in the countryside."