Llangurig Post Office and Stores has won a ‘Rural Oscar’ after being named the best of the best of Welsh rural businesses.

From almost 18,000 public nominations Mary and Colin Davies’ business was announced as the winner of the Countryside Alliance Award for best village shop and post office at a ceremony in Cardiff Bay on May 1.

As Champions of Wales they were presented with a red plaque by TV farmer Gareth Wyn Jones.

The judges praised the “extremely hard-working” couple for their dedication to the people and surrounding villages of Llangurig and for withstanding ruthless post office cuts.

Mary told the County Times that it was “amazing” to win the award: “I never thought we’d win. I couldn’t believe how emotional I was, there were a couple of tears.

“We put our heart and soul into the business. It’s lovely that they’ve recognised that it’s more than a job.”

Montgomeryshire AM Russell George congratulated the Davies’ on their “much deserved” recognition.

The British finals will be held at the House of Lords on June 19.