A HEREFORDSHIRE pub is in the running for a highly-regarded award.

The Moody Cow in Upton Bishop has reached the Midlands final for the Countryside Alliance’s rural enterprise of the year award, an accolade intended to celebrate businesses that bring something positive to their local communities.

Since being saved from closure in 2012, the team at the Moody Cow have been serving up a varied but authentic menu primarily sourced from local agreements netting a variety of awards over the years.

The so-called ‘rural Oscars’, which are now in their 17th year, may be the next accolade under the pub's belt and are the Countryside Alliance’s platform for commending the work of village shops, butchers, pubs, local businesses and food producers.

The accolades are public-nomination-led and are seen as being amongst the most prominent in rural business awards.

Plenty of locals have already taken to social media to express their delight at seeing the pub in the running for such a prestigious honour.

“Congratulations and you’ve got my vote!” said Jill Berryman.

Michele Chapman chimed in, she said: “Best pub in Herefordshire!”

A spokesperson for Countryside Alliance said: “This award celebrates the imagination and ingenuity of individuals in the countryside supporting the rural economy.

“It commends those who have made a real contribution to the community through jobs and services and helped to enhance the local area. 

“The feel-good factor and pride that they bring cannot be overestimated.

“Those involved at every level tell us of the positive impact that this recognition has had on them, their businesses and their communities.”