JUDGES will soon be out and about visiting villages to find the best in Dorset.

But first, they need applications in from communities.

Dorset’s Best Village competition entry deadline closes after Easter – communities have until April 8 to send in an entry.

The Dorset Echo-backed competition has been organised by Dorset Community Action (DCA) for the past 26 years.

While ensuring locals are kept busy tidying bus stops, churchyards and village greens, the contest helps to boost community pride.

Last year almost 50 villages took part and Winfrith Newburgh won best large village.

Parish clerk Mandy Stephens said: “It’s a lovely village with a great community spirit.”

Entry packs have been sent to villages inviting them to enter either through the parish council, village hall committee or other active community group.

DCA’s competition organiser Rita Burden said: “We are delighted with the response so far, but want to remind everyone to contact us if they are planning to enter.

“By setting an entry deadline after the Easter weekend we hope not to exclude any community wishing to take part.”

Two special entry categories continue for a fourth year.

The People’s Project – the village judged to have entered the best project involving local active people and Best Environment’ – the village judged to be doing the best ‘Green’ initiative.

Magna Housing has announced that it will sponsor the competition for the next three years.

Additional sponsorship comes from Dorset County Council, the four district councils, The Dorset Echo, Dorset Magazine, Black-more Vale Magazine , along with local food producers Clipper Tea, Fudges Biscuits, Honeybuns, Craig’s Dairies and Denhay Farms and Helen Furness Catering.

The deadline for entries is 5pm on Monday, April 8 with the commencement of judging from May until July. DCA is encouraging groups to save paper and postage by entering the competition online if possible.

Entry packs can be downloaded from the website dorsetcommunityaction.org.uk or telephone DCA on 01305 216407 and ask to be to be sent a paper copy.

This year’s Best Village presentation evening is planned for Thurs-day, September 19 at Puddletown Village Hall.