THE race is on to find Suffolk Village of the Year 2003.Sir Edward Greenwell, president of the Suffolk Association of Local Councils (SALC), launched the awards, open to villages with fewer than 500 electors, with a view to celebrating the best of rural life.

THE race is on to find Suffolk Village of the Year 2003.

Sir Edward Greenwell, president of the Suffolk Association of Local Councils (SALC), launched the awards, open to villages with fewer than 500 electors, with a view to celebrating the best of rural life.

Villages do not have to be chocolate box images. Judges are looking for communities that offer something for everyone, care for the environment and look after public amenities. Special initiative will also be rewarded.

Mary Mitford-Woods, Chief Executive of SALC, described the process which will decide who takes over the crown from Coddenham, last years winners: "What it looks for is a community where all the residents work together to make the village a really good place to live."

There will also be awards for Parish Council of the Year. Both awards are sponsored by Calor, with prizes of up to £600 and the chance to compete at a national level in the autumn.

The launch coincided with the official opening of the association's new offices at Hill View Business Park, Claydon.

SALC gives support and advice to parish and town councils across the county.

Anyone interested in entering their village can apply for entry forms on (01473) 833713 or email salc.suffolk@lineone.net.