THE Isle of Wight is in the running for a Countryfile Magazine Award.

Following a public vote, the Island is one of five areas fighting to be crowned Holiday Destination of the Year.

Scotland’s Speyside, the Pembrokeshire coast, Suffolk, and the Forest of Bowland in Yorkshire and Lancashire are all in the running.

It follows some tough judging by a panel which included Countryfile presenter John Craven, and author and rural affairs journalist Mark Rowe.

Visit Isle of Wight Chair and acting chief executive, Simon Dabell, said: “It’s great to hear yet again that the Isle of Wight is being recognised as a really good holiday for both coast and country, because we’ve got a great coastal path, we’ve got some really good footpaths, the Island’s great for cycling and walking but also for people that want to come and have a short break and relax.”

Voting opens tomorrow (Friday 19th Jan). Cast your vote here. http://www.countryfile.com/category/tag-cloud/bbc-countryfile-magazine-awards.