Following a successful year, which saw its move into new larger, more accessible premises, The Green Gram Community Refill Shop in Fordingbridge is ending the year on a high note as the nationwide winner of The Horace Plunkett award.

The Horace Plunkett Award is part of the Rural Community Business Awards, held annually by the Plunkett Foundation to celebrate businesses from across the UK that have been recognised for their contribution to their communities.

Selected from 19 finalists, representing a wide range of businesses from across the UK – including community-owned farms, woodlands, shops, pubs and community hubs, these businesses help rural communities tackle local issues such as isolation, loneliness, and lack of employment, as well as improving wellbeing.

The final Rural Community Business Award is the ‘Horace Plunkett Award’ which is selected by trustees and following nominations from the staff team.

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The Green Gram committee member Jo Anderson said: “What an incredible year – topped off by winning the Horace Plunkett award.

"We are absolutely delighted that the hard work we have put into our shop and the support we have been given by our volunteers has received such a plaudit.

"Since our move, we have had some fantastic feedback from our local community, but to be recognised for the work we have done by those who are further afield is terrific.

"We are extremely proud of what we have achieved and our little bit in putting Fordingbridge on the map.”

The Green Gram said since May 2022, it has helped customers prevent more than 31,000 containers (equal to 720kg of plastic waste) from being thrown away by providing refills of foods, cleaning products and toiletries in pre-used containers.

Jo added: “If you haven’t visited our shop yet, please do come and say hello. We are open until Saturday, December 23 from 8:30am to 2pm, closed for Christmas but then raring to go for 2024 and reopening on Tuesday, January 2 at 10am.”