RESIDENTS are busy mowing the green and sweeping up at the bus stop as judging begins for Dorset’s Best Village Competition.

Four categories are still open in the contest, organised by Dorset Community Action and now in its 30th year.

Magna Housing has been the major sponsor for the competition since 2010 with additional sponsorship from Dorset County Council, Dorset Echo and a range of other organisations including Dorset Magazine, Blackmore Vale Magazine, and local food producers Clipper Tea, Fudges Biscuits, Honeybuns, Craig’s Dairies and Helen Furness Catering.

DCA’s Competition Organiser Rita Burden says: “We are moving around Dorset visiting each of the villages which have been entered and we’re encouraged by the huge interest shown in the competition.

"There is also still time for groups to enter specific categories.”

Besides the main “Best Village” competition, there are four other entry sections.

The People’s Project – village judged to have entered the best project involving local active people Environmental Champions – village judged to be doing the best ‘green’ initiative.

Best Village Shop – the sponsors, Dorset branch of the CPRE is supporting this category for a third year. Communities are asked to nominate the shop which serves them best.

Neighbourliness – new category which is about what the community is doing to look after its most vulnerable and needy.

Any Dorset village can enter. The deadline for these categories is 5pm on Monday, July 25.

Entry details can be downloaded from dorsetcommunityaction.org.uk or call 01305 216407 to ask for a paper copy.