STRONG community spirit and a desire to pull together through good times and bad are the qualities being sought in the hunt for Hampshire’s best village.

Entries are being accepted into the 2009 Calor Hampshire Village of the Year competition, with judges looking at four areas of rural life – community, business, sustainability and communication.

One of the county winners will then be nominated to represent Hampshire in the national competition later in the year, with the potential to gain a share of the £55,000 prize fund.

Villages have until April 10 to enter. Forms are available from Steven Lugg on 01962 841699.