A sausage maker is hoping for an honour from the Prince of Wales for giving money to community projects in rural areas.

Tunbridge Wells-based debbie&andrew’s has been named a finalist at the Responsible Business Awards, with the gala evening held at the O2 on Monday.

The company – which stocks its pork sausages in Tesco, Sainsbury’s and Morrisons – hopes to pick up the Rural Action Award at the event run by Business in the Community and backed by the Prince’s Responsible Business Network.

Its micro sponsorship scheme offers £50 to £1,000 to people raising money for worthy causes in Kent which fall under its slogan “A Real Taste of the Country”.

The scheme supports village fetes, country fairs, open days at a local farms, school projects and local support networks.

It has given grants to Headway West, the Kent branch of the charity which provides a support for people who have suffered brain injuries, as well as Demelza Hospice and Imago.

debbie&andrew’s managing director Ian Bagnall said: “We promise ‘a real taste of the country’, which means not just making great sausages, but passing on the support our customers give us to grassroots fundraisers who are doing amazing things to support their communities.

“It is brilliant to get this recognition which we are delighted to hand on to all our fans, as we couldn’t do it without them.”

The company will also have a stand at the Kent County Show this weekend.