Residents did not have the opportunity to vote in the Oakham South by-election. They now have a uncontested Liberal democrat councillor. Ray Payne
Now Ray Payne has joined the local Lib Dem team he hopes it will strengthen their position when opposing further reckless developments in Oakham. For too long our community has been taken for granted, he hopes to make a positive change for Oakham South.
Ray says "I love living here in Oakham and feel great pride in being a part of our community. For the last several years, I have volunteered as driver for Volunteer Action Rutland, a role that has helped me gain a firm knowledge of our town, our county and the challenges faced by both. My professional career involved me in both the Educational and Mental Health spheres. I spent the majority of my life working with children and young adults who often had learning difficulties, coupled with emotional and behavioural challenges. It is with great regret that I have seen the assistance and support that these young people so desperately need reduced even further in recent years. I know from my own personal contacts and experience that parents and children with special needs living in Oakham and Rutland face a daily battle in trying to obtain the help that they need. As your councillor, I would will work tirelessly to address this. Additionally, as a resident of Oakham, I am also deeply aware of the huge volume of development our town is being subjected to. I will join your existing Oakham South Lib Dems, team in opposing any further unwanted development in our Town. There is strength is numbers and as our team grows in Rutland, so does our ability to oppose further developments"