The fifth annual Countryside Alliance Awards were launched last September and attracted a record 2.500 nominations from across Britain. The Awards run across five categories: local food; village shop/ Post Office; enterprise, traditional business and Rural Hero. The Rural Hero category is a special award which rewards a selfless individual who works hard for the countryside and community around him or her.

Countryside Alliance Chief Executive Simon Hart announced the winners at the grand final, held at the House of Lords, last week.

The Rev Robson, who is chair of governors at De Aston School, picked up his award from judge Clarissa Dickson Wright.

Simon Hart said: "He formed the Lincolnshire Farmer Support Group, which is run by a group of volunteers with a wide understanding of farming issues and offers a confidential telephone helpline.

"As well as this, Reverend Canon Alan Robson works with local groups to support the migrant worker population which contributes significantly to the area.

"Alan's most recent achievement is the Epic Project, a centre for innovation to explore new technologies and responses to global warming. The centre was his brainchild and through his determination the £6.2 million building which was opened last summer.

"Alan Robson is a heroic character with a passion for agriculture, food production and pastoral care. Alan, you are very much appreciated and it is a pleasure to ask you to accept this award."