THE annual Isle of Wight Village of the Year competition will be launched this month.

Now in its third year, the competition is run by the Isle of Wight Rural Community Council (IWRCC) and sponsored by petroleum gas supplier Calor.

Communities are judged on six aspects of village life, including building community life, business, young people, older people, the environment and information-communication technology.

Later in the year the overall winner will have the opportunity to represent the county in the prestigious national English Calor Village of the Year competition, which this year has a prize fund of more than £36,000.

The closing date for entries is April 22 and judging of shortlisted villages will take place in May.

Category winners and the Isle of Wight Village of the Year will be announced at a formal presentation event taking place on June 28.

For more information call IWRCC on 01983 524058 or e-mail janet.short@iwrcc.org.uk.