VILLAGES across the Forest of Dean are being invited to put themselves forward for a countywide competition celebrating strong, inclusive communities.

Gloucestershire Rural Community Council has launched its Gloucestershire Village of the Year 2026 competition, calling on villages with populations under 4,000 to showcase the work they do to support local residents.

The competition is open to villages with a parish council or parish meeting, and entries are now open via the GRCC website. The deadline for applications is Monday, May 18.

Judging will focus on five key areas: community-led health and wellbeing, climate and environmental resilience, volunteering and skills, digital inclusion, and the High Sheriff’s Young Person’s Overcoming Adversity Award.

Shortlisted villages will receive visits from judges in June, with winners announced at an awards ceremony in July at Highnam Court.

The overall winner will receive £2,000 along with a commemorative certificate and plaque, with category winners also receiving £2,000. Runners-up in each category will be awarded £1,000. All entrants will be entered into a prize draw, with prizes worth more than £500 donated by B&Q in Gloucester.

GRCC chief executive Barbara Piranty said: “Last year’s awards ceremony was an inspiring celebration of the incredible work happening across Gloucestershire. I wholeheartedly encourage villages to submit an entry. It doesn’t need to be complicated or time-consuming, simply tell us about the great things you’re already doing.”

She added: “This is a valuable opportunity to pause, reflect, and celebrate what makes your community special, including those who work so hard to make it thrive.”

Last year’s overall winner, Painswick, has encouraged other villages to take part, even if they feel they are not “ready” yet, describing the competition as a useful learning opportunity.

GRCC is again working in partnership with district councils, community organisations and the High Sheriff of Gloucestershire, with new sponsors joining for 2026.