Take a Trip Down Oakham High Street: Art, Shopping, and Local Charm, Victoria Hall, Oakham, Rutland

Take a Trip Down Oakham High Street: Art, Shopping, and Local Charm

Oakham's High Street is brimming with hidden gems, waiting to be discovered! 

This week, I am showcasing a trio of fantastic spots all nestled together, offering a delightful mix of art, shopping, and friendly conversation.

First, step into the historic Victoria Hall. This beautiful Grade II listed building boasts a stunning art gallery, currently showcasing works by talented local artists. 

Greetings cards and other gifts created by local artists.

www.victoriahall.org

Artist Stephen Wigmore

Immerse yourself in the creativity and support the vibrant artistic community Rutland has to offer.

Michelle invites you to explore the delightful Apple Blossom Pink homestyle shop. 

www.appleblossompink.com

Gold Balloon Dog

Whimsical Resin White Mouse Lamps

Naydi's Cake Tins

Rick Stein

Whether you're searching for unique gifts, charming homeware, or simply a touch of inspiration, this shop is sure to have something to tickle your fancy.

And finally, don't miss the chance to chat with Connie Taylor at Connie Taylor Ceramics. Connie's exquisite hand-crafted ceramics are not only beautiful but also a testament to her dedication and skill.

www.connietaylor.co.uk

So why not take a stroll along Oakham High Street this weekend?  

Tip Top Nails, Opening Soon, Gaol Street, Oakham, Rutland.

Tip Top Nails, Opening Soon, Gaol Street, Oakham, Rutland.

'Rutland's Great Dementia Conversation' officially launched in Victoria Hall, Oakham, John Suchet and Nula Suchet and MP Alicia Kearns, Photos and Video

John and Nula Suchet, launched 'Rutland's Great Dementia Conversation'.

On Saturday 20 April, John and Nula, gave a talk about their own story about caring for a loved ones with dementia.

Almost 150 people attended. after the talk, those attending asked questions after the talk.

John met his wife Nula whilst both their spouses were living in care with dementia, they married in 2016. John and Nula are now ambassadors for Alzheimer's Society. www.alzheimers.org.uk

John is known for his work presenting for Classic FM and prior to this he was a popular television reporter and newscaster.

'Rutland's Great Dementia Conversation' is aiming to drive up dementia awareness, increase diagnoses in Rutland and make our communities more dementia friendly.

Rutlland and Melton MP Alicia Kearns has launched a new Rutland dementia website providing guidance on how to become more dementia friendly, the signs and symptoms of dementia, information on support for those living with dementia, their carers and loved ones, and local dementia groups and events.

www.rutlanddementia.com

More information on John and Nula Suchet's story can be found here. 

www.johnsuchet.co.uk/dementia

Alicia Kearns, Member of Parliament for Rutland and Melton, said: "With dementia affecting one in two of us in our lifetime, either by caring for someone with the condition, developing it ourselves, or both, it's important we make our communities in Rutland as supportive as possible of all those living with dementia, or caring for loved ones with the condition.

"I am so grateful to John and Nula for giving up their time to share their stories with us, and start our conversation – their ability to inspire laughter and tears was a joy to share.

"We have the clinics and support available in Rutland, so I hope our conversation encourages anyone locally who has noticed something has changed, or whose loved one may be showing signs of dementia, to have the confidence to step forward and access this support."

OAKHAM, Rutland (RuRut) - In a shocking turn of events, the historic county of Rutland has undergone a dramatic name change.

OAKHAM, Rutland (RuRut) - In a shocking turn of events, the historic county of Rutland has undergone a dramatic name change. Effective immediately, the landlocked region nestled between Leicestershire and Lincolnshire will henceforth be known as... Rutland Rutland (affectionately nicknamed "RuRut").

Local officials cited a desire to "embrace the unique double-barreled nature of our name" and capitalise on the growing trend of alliteration in place names.  "We believe Rutland Rutland will be instantly recognisable and truly unforgettable," declared Labour Councillor Steamin' McStewface , sporting a new "RuRut" baseball cap.

Reactions from residents have been mixed. Shopkeeper Mildred Miggins enthusiastically proclaimed, "It's simply marvelous! Now when tourists ask where I'm from, I can say 'RuRut' with a wink!"  However, not everyone is enamored. Farmer Barnaby Barley grumbled, "RuRut sounds like a stuttering sheep.  We were perfectly fine with plain old Rutland!"

Other News:

Rutland Rutland to Host International Sheepdog Trials: In a move sure to bolster the region's reputation for ovine obsession, RuRut will host the inaugural "Double Dog Dare Ya" Sheepdog Trials. The competition promises a grueling course featuring not just sheep, but also mischievous ducks and a particularly stubborn llama named Larry.

Oakham Castle Announces Acquisition of Loch Ness Monster: Loch Ness, prepare to lose your resident legend! Oakham Castle has announced the "historic" acquisition of Nessie, who will be the centerpiece of a new exhibit titled "Myths and Mysteries of Merrie England." Castle officials are tight-lipped on how they managed to transport the elusive creature, but rumors of a giant eel-shaped tankwagon abound.

Local Bakery Unveils Upside-Down Victoria Sponge: In a culinary coup, renowned Oakham bakery "Buttercup's Buns" has unveiled its latest creation: the "Rutland Reverser" Victoria Sponge. This innovative cake features the jam and cream layers sandwiched between the bottom two sponge layers, leaving the fluffy top exposed. Traditionalists are outraged, while adventurous foodies are lining up to try this "reimagining" of a classic.

Oakham, Rutland, Nine years ago.

Oakham, Rutland, Nine years ago.

Unveiling of Rutland's Queen Elizabeth II Statue: A Celebration for All, Oakham, Rutland

Unveiling of Rutland's Queen Elizabeth II Statue: A Celebration for All

Join the community in honouring Queen Elizabeth II at the unveiling of her statue, the first in the UK commissioned since her passing.

Date: Sunday April 21st, 2024 (Her Majesty's Birthday)

Time: Unveiling at 2:00 PM

Location: Oakham Library Gardens (behind the library)

Festivities:

12:00 PM - 4:00 PM: Food stalls and a funfair in Oakham Market Place - bring the whole family for a fun afternoon!

The Statue:

A full-figure bronze monument depicting the Queen in her prime, accompanied by three corgi sculptures.

Funded almost entirely by generous donations from the people of Rutland.

Created by sculptor Hywel Pratley, a renowned member of prestigious societies.

Special Guests:

Representatives from the UK Corgi Club are expected to attend with their dogs.

A heartfelt tribute and a chance to celebrate the life and legacy of Britain's longest-reigning monarch.

 Everyone is welcome!

https://rutlandlordlieutenant.org/our-statue-of-queen-elizabeth-ii/

A Sight to Ewe-se: Spring Lambs Frolic in Oakham Meadows, Oakham, Rutland, Spring 2024

A Sight to Ewe-se: Spring Lambs Frolic in Oakham Meadows

Spring has sprung in Oakham, Rutland, and with it comes the heart-warming sight of fluffy lambs gambolling in the meadows. These adorable creatures, alongside their attentive mothers, are a welcome reminder of nature's renewal and spring is on its way.