CREDITON bookshop The Bookery has been crowned the winner of the Horace Plunkett Award, kindly supported by Stephen Nicol, at the 2026 Rural Community Business Awards, hosted by Plunkett UK.

The award, named after the founder of Plunkett UK, recognises the longevity, resilience and impact of community-owned businesses that make an exceptional difference to the places they serve. The winners were announced at a national awards ceremony held at the Royal Society of Chemistry in London on Thursday, July 2, sponsored by Lands Improvement.

Over the past decade, The Bookery has developed from an independent bookshop into a community-owned, multi-service hub, responding to local needs and delivering a wide range of social, cultural and economic benefits.

Its programme of outreach activities supports wellbeing and tackles isolation across generations. Regular sessions include Playtime for young children, Soup and Stories for older residents, and Sharing Stories, a volunteer-led programme reaching isolated individuals each month.

The Bookery also delivers an extensive school’s programme, engaging over 3,000 children annually, alongside a busy calendar of author events and community activities.

The Bookery provides co-working and meeting space for community groups, champions local authors and suppliers, and offers a welcoming Warm Space for those who need it.

Dominic Myers, General Manager of The Bookery, said: “We are absolutely delighted to receive this award. It reflects the incredible support we've received from our volunteers, shareholders, customers, partners and everyone who has supported The Bookery over the years.”

Sarah Benn, Relationships Team Leader at Plunkett UK, said: “It has been a great joy to recognise and celebrate all of the finalists at this Rural Community Business Awards.

“Each one is truly dedicated to making a difference in their community. Well done to all of this year's winners – their award is very much deserved!”