Breaking news: Countryside Alliance refused charitable status

Countryside Alliance response  

“The Countryside Alliance is disappointed that, whilst the Charity Commission recognises the important work we do protecting and promoting rural life and representing the interests of people living and working in the countryside from all backgrounds, it does not believe that it is possible to bring such work within the legal definition of a charity. Our legal advisors interpreted the law very differently, but if the Charity Commission is correct it exposes a fundamental problem with charity legislation.

“It cannot be right that the law discriminates against activities which clearly should be charitable and which the Charity Commission itself recognises as important work which is beneficial to society, whilst bestowing the advantages of charitable status on activities which have far less public benefit. We will consider an appeal in order to clarify the law.”

Ponsanooth Village Stores in Cornwall won the village shop and post office category in the 2016 Countryside Alliance Awards

Praise for the Countryside Alliance from the Environment Secretary

The Countryside Alliance Awards, nicknamed “The Rural Oscars” are held annually to reward small hard-working businesses and celebrate rural produce, skills, enterprise and heritage.

Ponsanooth Village Stores receiving their award from the Environment Secretary

At this year’s Awards event in the House of Lords,  the Environment Secretary told the assembled rural businessmen and women: “Rural businesses are not just the beating heart of our countryside – they are also a vital part of the UK’s economy, generating almost £230 billion every year. I’m really pleased the Countryside Alliance is honouring some of these hard working businesses and ensuring they get the recognition they deserve. Today’s winners and nominees represent the very best of Rural Britain and I’m delighted to celebrate the crucial role our post offices, farm shops and food start-ups play in connecting communities across the country.”