AN eco-friendly shop in Fordingbridge has capped an eventful year with a special award.

The Green Gram, which recently moved to new premises in the High Street, is ending 2023 on a high note after being awarded The Horace Plunkett Award.

The accolade, part of the Rural Community Business Awards, was handed out by the Plunkett Foundation, celebrating companies across for their contribution to the community.

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

The Horace Plunkett Award is selected by trustees following nominations from the staff team.

Volunteers at The Green Gram in Fordingbridge

Committee member at The Green Gram, 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.”

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Since May 2022, The Green Gram has been offering refills of foods, cleaning products and toiletries, helping prevent more than 31,000 containers – equivalent to nearly 720kg plastic – being thrown out by refilling the containers they already owned.

Jo added: “If you haven’t visited our shop yet, please do come and say hello. We are open until Saturday, December 23, 8.30am to 2pm, closed for Christmas but then raring to go for 2024 and re-opening on Tuesday, January 2, at 10am.

“From all of us at The Green Gram, we’d like to wish you a Merry Christmas.”