Saturday, March 31, 2012

The End RAF Cottesmore

The End RAF Cottesmore

Name Signs Removed

At 6.00pm,  The RAF flag was lowered for the last time at the base this evening. The RAF departed Rutland and handed the base over to the MOD for them to make preparation for the arrival of the Army.

MOD Guard Service


Some passing the gate said it was a sad day for Rutland. Maybe a sad day for councillors who have served the RAF for years, maybe they can now concentrate on serving the wider community.

Local Press  BBC to the Rutland Times

I actually found a visit to the nearby cemetery much much more saddening. So many names and ages as low as 20



I was surprised our Mayor Councillor Joyce Lucas did not stop to visit and pay tribute, particularly as she was a guest in the Parish of Cottesmore.

I spotted Tory Roger Begy and his wife driving his eco friendly Jag  both waved, I thought how cheerful it was to be in Rutland then the Chief Executive Helen Briggs approached Rutland's Iron Lady, I am not sure if the lack of expression is caused by botox  A similar face could be seen worn by Oakhams Mayor, things quickly returned to normality with the arrival of Rutlands High Sheriff Peter Lawson and his wife who both waved.

On my return to Oakham I had the misfortune to spot the Mayor speeding back to Oakham no consideration for the residents of Burley the flashing slow down sign is in place for a reason.
Even Leicestershire Constabulary managed to pass without triggering the warning sign.


I was impressed to see the MOD did not  treat the local 
VIP's any different from the press or the local bus, 
they all had to enter by the side gate and sign in 
The High Sheriffs wife returns
to her car while Tory Leader Roger Begy waits in line

The RAF and MOD officials were waved 
in through the main gate.

Both the Mayor and Chief Executive attempted the 
main gate and were told to go away.