SAFFRON Walden has been nominated for TWO accolades in a national countryside awards scheme.

The town was shortlisted in the Countryfile Magazine Awards – launched last year to celebrate the countryside and its people – and it is down to the public to decide the winners.

Saffron Walden is one of 10 areas nominated for ‘Britain’s favourite market town’ category, while Audley End Kitchen Garden has also been shortlisted in the ‘Most beautiful garden’ group.

The town’s mayor, Cliff Treadwell, told the Reporter he was “absolutely delighted” about the news.

“The fact that we are getting national recognition is great and I hope it encourages more people to visit and experience the wonderful delights we have here.

“From very attractive buildings to the maze, the museum and the Audley End gardens – the list goes on.

“It is a wonderful accolade for the town and I hope it makes people very proud when they hear about it.”

Mark Starte, duty manager at the Tourist Information Centre, said the nominations were a “great recognition for the town and its standing as a highly desirable tourist destination and place to live.

“Everyone at the Tourist Information Centre and the town council is absolutely thrilled about this highly prestigious nomination, and also for the Kitchen Garden at Audley End.

“We would encourage all residents to vote and make this a winning year for our beautiful town.”

There was also good news for the Imperial War Museum at Duxford, which was nominated as Britain’s best heritage attraction in a shortlist compiled by BBC Countryfile presenter Jules Hudson.

He said: “Duxford’s historic airfield and its collections dedicated to aircraft, land warfare and conservation are without doubt my favourite.”

The awards were launched in April’s issue of Countryfile Magazine, and feature 12 categories from conservation projects to best heritage attractions.

• To get behind the town’s bid for success, visit countryfile.com/awardsvote or e-mail your vote to awards@countryfile.com – voting closes on June 1.