ST ENDELLION is in the running for a prestigious green, energy efficient award and could find itself winning £20,000.

The climate friendly parish in Port Isaac is one of five groups in contention for the award having already beaten strong competition to get a film made about its work and for the chance to win the large cash bursary.

The Future Friendly Awards is a nationwide search for people who are making a difference to their local community by championing sustainability and inspiring others to do the same.

St Endellion was recognised for a range of its initiatives in energy efficient housing, promoting public transport, the use of renewable energy and waste reduction. This came about after the launch of the parish's Climate Friendly Project Plan in 2006.

Examples of St Endellion's achievements include getting local businesses to replace conventional light bulbs with low-energy ones, installing solar panels at the Crow's Nest pub, energy audits in buildings and houses, and promoting the local bus service to reduce car use.

If named overall winner, the community would receive £20,000, which could help it reduce its energy use by 25% in the next two years, and further inspire the surrounding area.

The initiative impressed the judges with its community roots and the way it seeks to motivate local residents by working with them face to face.

Chairman of the group Tony Wainright said: "It's been wonderful to have made the shortlist of the Future Friendly Awards from among so many entries. It's a real boost to know that our work to improve the local community is being recognised at a national level, and we're hoping that people who see more of our work will agree that it's worth their vote. The bursary would really help fund our work to build a community-owned power generator and insulate the village hall. The advice from the experts would help us find the best way to encourage sustainable tourism, which is crucial to preserving our village."

St Endellion residents are now canvassing for public support in the online vote.

St Endellion Parish Council chairman David Phelps said: "We'd like every village to be climate friendly. Unless they are, then we won't have villages in the future. To be nominated to have a chance to win the money is an absolute godsend."

The voting is open until April 4, and the winner will be announced soon afterwards. To find out more and vote for St Endellion log on to www.futurefriendly.co.uk

● See St Endellion's video on www.thisiscornwall.co.uk