Sunday, December 22, 2024

Cottesmore Hunt Boxing Day Meet 2024

Cottesmore Hunt Boxing Day Meet 2024


The Cottesmore Hunt have announced their traditional Boxing Day Meet this year will be held outside Rutland at Stapleford LE14 2EF at 11am, followed by hound exercise.

Everyone is welcome to attend, mounted or on foot. 

There will also be a collection for the charity ‘For Rutland’.

  • Date: December 26, 2024
  • Time: 11am
  • Location: Stapleford LE14 2EF
  • Activities: Boxing Day Meet, hound exercise, charity collection for ‘For Rutland’

  • Important Note: 

    Please be cautious if attending this event. 

    This past year has seen a increased level of violence at meets. 

    A former Cottesmore Hunt Steward is currently wanted by police for failing to turn up at Leicestershire Magistrates Court for sentencing, he should not be approached by the public. A warrant has been issued for his arrest the offender is known for his violent manner, he has previously been sentenced for firearms offences after a argument with a friend. 

    Paralyzed Man From Sandy Bedfordshire Marries Fiancée in Addenbrooke's Hospital After Devastating motorcycle Crash, The accident occurred on November 8th 2024 on the A1 Biggleswade, Bedfordshire.

    Paralyzed Man Marries Fiancée in Hospital After Devastating motorcycle Crash

    Mr & Mrs Brookes 20th December 2024

    Barry Brookes, (my nephew) 22, was left paralyzed from the chest down after a serious car accident, married his fiancée, Evie, in a moving ceremony at Addenbrooke's Hospital on December 20th 2024.

    The accident occurred on November 8th 2024 on the A1 near Biggleswade, Bedfordshire, while Barry was biking to pick up Evie from work. The collision launched him onto the bonnet of a van, resulting in a severe spinal injury.

    Barry said: "Doctors told me I was paralyzed from the chest down and that walking again was unlikely"

    Barry also shared. "It was devastating news, but Evie and I knew we wouldn't let this define us."

    Despite facing a long road to recovery, the couple decided to proceed with their wedding plans. "We still hadn't started planning before the accident," Barry explained, "but afterwards, we realised life's too short."

    The ceremony took place in the hospital's day room, with close family and friends in attendance. Evie wore a full bridal gown, and Barry donned a suit. "It was magical," he recalled.

    Barry, a former warehouse worker, is determined to maintain a positive outlook. "I'm going to be in a wheelchair, most likely, for the rest of my life, but I won't let it get me down," he said. "I can breathe on my own, use my arms, and sit up in bed. I believe I can live independently one day, in a wheelchair."

    Doctors have estimated that Barry will remain in the hospital for at least another year. 

    A GoFundMe page has been set up to assist him with medical expenses and the cost of adaptive equipment. 

    www.gofundme.com/f/barry-gets-back-on-track-after-an-unfortunate-accident







    Tesco, Co-op, Lidl, Aldi, One Stop, Christmas Opening Hours, Oakham and Uppingham Rutland 2024

    Tesco, Co-op, Lidl, Aldi, One Stop, Christmas Opening Hours, Oakham and Uppingham Rutland 2024



    Co-op
    83 Braunston Road
    Oakham
    Rutland
    LE15 6LE




    Sunday         07:00 - 22:00

    Monday         07:00 - 22:00

    Tuesday         07:00 - 21:00

    Wednesday       Closed

    Thursday         09:00 - 17:00

    Friday         07:00 - 22:00

    Saturday         07:00 - 22:00






    Co-op
    North Street East
    Uppingham
    Rutland
    LE15 9QL

    Christmas opening hours

    Christmas Eve:    6am to 7pm

    Christmas Day:    Closed

    Boxing Day:        10am to 7pm

    New Years Eve:    6am to 7pm

    New Years Day:    10am to 7pm

    Normal Opening hours

    Monday to Saturday: 6am to 10pm

    Sunday: 10am to 4pm







    Co-op
    Burley Road,
    Rutland, 
    Oakham
    LE15 7AA


    Sunday         10:00 - 16:00

    Monday         07:30 - 21:00

    Tuesday         07:30 - 21:00

    Wednesday      Closed

    Thursday         09:00 - 17:00

    Friday              07:30 - 21:00

    Saturday         07:30 - 20:00






    Lidl
    Barleythorpe Road
    Oakham
    Rutland
    LE15 6RQ


    Sunday 22 December - Open as normal

    Monday 23 December - 07:00 - 22:00

    Tuesday 24 December - 07:00 - 18:00

    Wednesday 25 December - Closed

    Thursday 26 December - Closed

    Friday 27 December - 08:00 - 21:00

    Saturday 28 December - 08:00 - 21:00 

    Sunday 29 December - Open as normal

    Monday 30 December - Open as normal

    Tuesday 31 December - 08:00 - 18:00

    Wednesday 01 January - Closed

    Thursday 02 January - Open as normal





    Tesco, Co-op, Lidl, Aldi, One Stop, Christmas Opening Hours, Oakham and Uppingham Rutland 2024

    Aldi
    Hackamore Way, 
    Oakham
    LE15 7FS


    Sunday 22nd December: 9:30am-4pm  09:30 - 10:00 browsing only

    Monday 23rd December:  7am-10pm

    Tuesday 24th December, Christmas Eve:  7am-6pm

    Wednesday 25th December, Christmas Day: CLOSED

    Thursday 26th December, St Stephen’s Day: CLOSED

    Friday 27th December:  8am-8pm

    Saturday 28 December:  8am-8pm

    Sunday 29 December: 9:30am - 4pm   09:30 - 10:00 browsing only

    Monday 30 December:  8am-8pm

    Tuesday 31st December, New Year’s Eve:  8am-6pm

    Wednesday 1st January, New Year’s Day: CLOSED






    Tesco Stores Ltd 
    96 South Street
    Oakham 
    LE15 6BQ










    One Stop
    Unit 2B 
    Maresfield Rd 
    Oakham
    LE15 7FW









    One Stop
    18-20 Churchill Road
    Oakham 
    Rutland 
    LE15 6LH




    Opening Hours

    Sunday                    07:00 - 22:00

    Monday                   07:00 - 22:00

    Tuesday 24th           07:00 - 22:00

    Wednesday 25th      07:00 - 22:00

    Thursday 26th         07:00 - 22:00

    Friday 27th              07:00 - 22:00

    Saturday 28th          07:00 - 22:00





    One Stop
    32 High Street West
    Uppingham 
    Oakham
    LE15 9QD



    Opening Hours

    Sunday               07:00 - 22:00

    Monday              07:00 - 22:00

    Tuesday 24th      07:00 - 21:00

    Wednesday 25th Closed

    Thursday 26th    09:00 - 19:00

    Friday 27th         07:00 - 22:00

    Saturday 28th     07:00 - 22:00

    Rutland Garden Village Hosts Festive Family Fun with Treasure Hunt, Ashwell, Rutland.

    Rutland Garden Village Hosts Festive Family Fun with Treasure Hunt

    This Christmas, Rutland Garden Village is spreading the cheer with a magical family treasure hunt. Today and Monday, 23rd, visitors of all ages are invited to join in the festive fun and explore the village in search of hidden treats.   

    The treasure hunt is free to participate in, and maps are available to guide explorers through the village. Along the way, participants will encounter Santa's sneaky surprises hidden throughout the village.   

    Every little explorer who completes the adventure trail will receive a delightful surprise at the finish line. This event promises a memorable holiday experience for families in Rutland and beyond.

    Dates: December 22nd - 23rd   

    Location: Rutland Garden Village, Ashwell, Rutland.   

    Cost: Free

    Activities: Treasure hunt, Santa's surprises, and a delightful surprise at the finish line

    Friday, December 20, 2024

    Get ready for a festive treat! The D'Ukes of Rutland are bringing their Christmas cheer to Oakham Castle on Saturday, December 21st, from 1:30 PM to 3 PM.

    Get ready for a festive treat! The D'Ukes of Rutland are bringing their Christmas cheer to Oakham Castle on Saturday, December 21st, from 1:30 PM to 3 PM.

    Get ready for a festive treat! The D'Ukes of Rutland are bringing their Christmas cheer to Oakham Castle on Saturday, December 21st, from 1:30 PM to 3 PM.


    This talented ukulele band will be performing a delightful selection of holiday classics and other favorites, sure to get you in the Christmas spirit. So gather your family and friends and head to Oakham Castle for an afternoon of fun, music, and holiday cheer.

    Event Details:

    • Date: Saturday, December 21st
    • Time: 1:30 PM - 3 PM
    • Location: Oakham Castle
    • Admission: Free, with donations to the Friends of Oakham Castle and Rutland County Museum

    A Festive Message from Oakham's Mayor Cllr Paul Ainsley, Oakham Town Council.

    A Festive Message from Oakham's Mayor Cllr Paul Ainsley, Oakham Town Council.

    A Festive Message from Oakham's Mayor Cllr Paul Ainsley, Oakham Town Council.

    As the festive season approaches, I am delighted to share some exciting news and initiatives from your Town Council.

    To make your Christmas shopping experience even more enjoyable, we're pleased to announce free parking on Saturdays in the lead-up to Christmas.  

    Looking Ahead to a Brighter Future

    As I look ahead to the New Year, I am committed to revitalising our town centre. The Council is planning a thorough spring clean to refresh our public spaces and create a more welcoming environment.

    We're also making significant strides in several key projects:

    • Church Street Toilets Refurbishment: We're investing in upgrading our public facilities, ensuring they're clean, modern, and accessible for all.
    • Royces Recreation Ground Development: We're working to enhance this popular green space, creating a vibrant hub for outdoor activities and community events.
    • Princess Avenue Dance Studio: We've submitted a pre-planning application for a new building with a Community Café and public toilets, fostering a sense of community and providing essential amenities.
    • Victoria Hall: We're collaborating with the trustees to secure the long-term future of this historic landmark, preserving our cultural heritage for generations to come.

    Get Involved

    I believe that a strong community is essential to a thriving town. 

    If you're passionate about making a difference, I encourage you to get involved. 

    Please contact us at 01572 723627 to learn more about how you can contribute.

    On behalf of the Town Council, I wish all Oakham residents a very Merry Christmas and a prosperous 2025. May the festive season bring joy, peace, and good health to you and your loved ones.

    Cllr Paul Ainsley Oakham Mayor

    Here are the Roads Santa Will Be Visiting in Oakham Tonight, Courtesy of the Lions Club of Rutland CIO

    Here are the Roads Santa Will Be Visiting in Oakham Tonight, Courtesy of the Lions Club of Rutland CIO

    The Lions Club of Rutland CIO Spreads Holiday Cheer with Santa's Special Route


    This Christmas season, the Lions Club of Rutland CIO is bringing joy to children and families throughout the community with a special Santa's route planned for tonight!

    Santa Claus, along with his merry band of elves, will be embarking on a journey around 5:30 pm, spreading Christmas cheer and magical moments. While Santa strives to visit every family and child, reaching those tucked away in cul-de-sacs or gated communities might be challenging. However, fret not! Santa will be strategically positioned, giving everyone a chance to come out and meet him in person.

    Stay tuned for Santa's arrival!

    The Lions Club of Rutland CIO will be keeping everyone updated on Santa's whereabouts. Listen out for a festive bell or keep an eye on the official Facebook page.

    https://www.facebook.com/lionsclubrutland

    Special thanks to Rutland Plumbing & Building for sponsoring this heartwarming event!

    Rutland Plumbing & Building's generous support ensures that Santa's mission of spreading holiday cheer is a success. Visit their Facebook page here: https://www.facebook.com/RutlandPlumbingAndBuilding

    So, get ready for a night filled with holiday magic! Bundle up, grab your loved ones, and head out to meet Santa Claus tonight!

    The Rutland Lions are hosting a Santa's Sleigh event on Friday, December 20th, 2024, in Oakham 5. The event will start at 5:30 PM and will cover several streets in the area, including:

    • Graffham Drive
    • Willoughby Gardens
    • Hilltop Drive
    • Mendip Road
    • Chiltern Close
    • Hectors Way
    • Cold Overton Road
    • John Clare Close
    • Parkfield Road
    • Hill Road
    • Princess Avenue 
    • Westfield Avenue
    • Kings Road

    The event is being sponsored by Rutland Plumbing & Building.

    If you live in one of these streets, you can expect a visit from Santa and his elves!

    The Lions Club of Rutland CIO: Spreading Holiday Cheer and Community Support

    As you enjoy the magic of Santa's tour through Oakham tonight, remember the dedicated efforts of the Lions Club of Rutland CIO. 

    This local organisation is committed to making a positive impact on the community.

    Want to contribute to their good work? You can show your support by:

    • Donating to a collection bucket 
    • Using the card machine operated by one of Santa's friendly elves

    Your generous donation will help the Lions Club continue their various community initiatives. Let's come together to make a difference!

    Wednesday, December 18, 2024

    All Saints' Church in Oakham, A Festive Evening of Carols and Readings, IKON professional choir and the Rutland Youth Choir

    All Saints' Church in Oakham, A Festive Evening of Carols and Readings, IKON professional choir and the Rutland Youth Choir

    Oakham Choir Christmas Celebration

    A Festive Evening of Carols and Readings

    All Saints' Church in Oakham is gearing up for a special Christmas celebration on Friday, December 20th at 7 PM. 

    The event promises to be a delightful evening filled with beautiful carols and readings, performed by talented musicians and singers.   

    The highlight of the evening will be the performance of the renowned IKON professional choir, conducted by David Hill. The choir will be accompanied by the Rutland Youth Choir, adding a youthful touch to the event. Together, they will present a selection of captivating carols by renowned composers such as Darke, Howells, and Rutter.   

    Beyond the musical performances, the event aims to support a worthy cause. Proceeds from ticket sales will be donated to the Rutland Foodbank, helping to provide essential food and support to those in need during the festive season.

    Ticket Information

    Tickets for the Christmas Celebration are priced at £15 or £20 for adults, with free admission for individuals under 18 years old. 

    Tickets can be purchased from Oakham Wines or by contacting Susie at 07809 229292.   

    All Saints Church Oakham, Christmas Eve Crib Service

    All Saints Church Oakham, Christmas Eve Crib Service

    All Saints Church Oakham, Christmas Eve Crib Service

    All Saints Church in Oakham will be hosting a special Crib Service on Christmas Eve at 4pm, 

    The service will feature traditional carols, readings, and a re-enactment of the Nativity story, culminating in the arrival of baby Jesus in the manger. 

    It promises to be a heart-warming and memorable experience for families and individuals of all ages.

    A Festive Season of Worship at All Saints Church, Baptist Church, Methodist Church, Catholic Church, Churches Together Christmas Service Times Oakham Rutland

    A Festive Season of Worship at All Saints Church, Baptist Church, Methodist Church, Catholic Church, Churches Together Christmas Service Times Oakham Rutland

    A Festive Season of Worship in Oakham


    The churches of Oakham are inviting the community to join them for a series of Christmas services and events.  

    All Saints Church, Oakham

    • Thursday, December 19th: 7:30 PM Nine Lessons and Carols
    • Sunday, December 22nd: Advent services at 8 AM, 10:30 AM, and 6 PM
    • Christmas Eve: 4 PM Come to the Crib, 11:30 PM Communion   
    • Christmas Day: 8 AM Quiet Communion, 10:30 AM Celebration

    Oakham Baptist Church

    • Sunday, December 15th: 10:30 AM Modern carols, 6 PM Carols by candlelight
    • Monday, December 16th: 9:30 AM Tiddlers Christmas Party
    • Sunday, December 22nd: 10:30 AM Nativity service
    • Christmas Day: 11 AM Family service followed by Christmas dinner (Dinner booking essential; email admin@oakhambaptist.org.uk)

    Oakham Methodist Church

    • Sunday, December 22nd: 6 PM Carol service
    • Christmas Day: 10:45 AM Family service

    Saint Joseph's Catholic Church

    • Christmas Eve: 4:30 PM First Mass of Christmas
    • Christmas Day: 10:30 AM Mass

    All are welcome to attend these services and events and celebrate the Christmas season with their local community.

    A Festive Season of Worship in Oakham and Langham

    A Festive Season of Worship in Oakham and Langham

    A Festive Season of Worship in Oakham and Langham

    The churches of All Saints Oakham and St Peter & St Paul Langham are inviting the community to join them for a series of Christmas services.

    Carol Services

    On December 19th, the festivities begin with the Barleythorpe Carol Service at the Old Buttercross at 5 PM. Later that evening, All Saints Oakham hosts a Nine Lessons and Carols service at 7:30 PM.

    Christmas Eve

    On Christmas Eve, both parishes offer Crib Services at 4 PM. The day culminates with Christmas Holy Communion services at 11:15 PM in Langham and 11:30 PM in Oakham.

    Christmas Day

    Christmas Day will be celebrated with Holy Communion services in Oakham at 8 AM and 10 AM, and in Langham at 10:30 AM.

    All are welcome to attend these services and celebrate the Christmas season with their local community.

    Barleythorpe Carols: A Festive Gathering at the Old Buttercross Pub, Panniers Way, Oakham LE15 7US

    Barleythorpe Carols: A Festive Gathering at the Old Buttercross Pub, Panniers Way, Oakham LE15 7US

    Barleythorpe Carols: A Festive Gathering at the Old Buttercross Pub

    Join the community for a heart-warming evening of Christmas carols at the Old Buttercross pub in Oakham, Rutland. 

    The Barleythorpe Carols event will take place on 19th December at 5 PM.

    Gather with friends, family, and neighbours to sing your favourite Christmas carols and enjoy the festive atmosphere. The Old Buttercross Pub will be serving delicious mince pies and mulled wine to warm you up during the cold winter evening.

    A Festive Season of Worship in Whissendine, Ashwell, Teigh, and Market Overton

    A Festive Season of Worship in Whissendine, Ashwell, Teigh, and Market Overton

    A Festive Season of Worship in Whissendine, Ashwell, Teigh, and Market Overton

    The festive season brings joy and togetherness, and the churches in Whissendine, Ashwell, Teigh, and Market Overton are inviting the community to join them for a series of Christmas services.

    Starting on Sunday, December 22nd, Market Overton kicks off the celebrations with a Carol and Crib Service at 3:30 PM, followed by Whissendine's Carol Service at 6 PM.

    On Monday, December 23rd, Teigh hosts their Carol and Crib Service at 5 PM.

    Christmas Eve offers a variety of services. Whissendine begins with a Crib Service at 4 PM, followed by Ashwell's Carol and Crib Service at 5:30 PM. The day culminates with Whissendine's Christmas Communion at 11 PM.

    Christmas Day brings further opportunities for worship. Teigh holds their Christmas Communion at 9 AM, while Market Overton's Christmas Communion takes place at 10 AM.

    All are welcome to attend these services and celebrate the Christmas season with their local community.

    Braunston, Brooke, Hambleton, and Egleton churches are coming together to spread holiday cheer with a series of Christmas services.

    Braunston, Brooke, Hambleton, and Egleton churches are coming together to spread holiday cheer with a series of Christmas services.

    Local Churches Unite for Festive Celebrations


    Braunston, Brooke, Hambleton, and Egleton churches are coming together to spread holiday cheer with a series of Christmas services. 

    On December 22nd, Brooke welcomes the community for a Holy Communion service at 8 AM. 

    Then, Christmas Eve will be filled with joy as Braunston holds a special "Journey to Jesus" service at 3:30 PM, 

    followed by Hambleton's Christmas Holy Communion at 9 PM.

    Christmas Day brings even more opportunities for celebration. Brooke starts the day with Holy Communion BCP at 8 AM, followed by Egleton's Holy Communion at 9:15 AM. 

    Finally, Braunston concludes the festivities with their Christmas Communion service at 11 AM.

    All are welcome to attend these services and share in the spirit of the season

    After a successful 10-year run as a popular late-night spot, Bills Bar Oakham is set to embark on a significant transformation.

    After a successful 10-year run as a popular late-night spot, Bills Bar Oakham is set to embark on a significant transformation.

    Bills Bar Oakham to Undergo Exciting Transformation


    After a successful 10-year run as a popular late-night spot, Bills Bar Oakham is set to embark on a significant transformation.

    The bar will temporarily close its doors in January to undergo a complete renovation. This exciting period will see the venue emerge with a fresh new identity, a new name, and a dedicated focus on sports and entertainment.

    "The world is constantly evolving, and we believe it's time for Bills Bar to evolve with it,"  

    "We're incredibly grateful for the support we've received from the Oakham community over the past decade, and we're confident that this transformation will create an even more vibrant and exciting destination for the town."

    The revamped venue promises an array of exciting features, including:

    • Interactive darts: Enjoy competitive fun with friends.
    • Expanded pool tables: More opportunities to challenge your friends to a game.
    • Shuffleboards & air hockey: Adding to the entertainment options.
    • Arcade machines: Bringing a touch of nostalgia and excitement.
    • 15m2 LED screen: An immersive experience for watching live sports and events.
    • New cocktail menu: Discover innovative and delicious drinks.
    • Mouth-watering Mexican food offering: Savor authentic flavors.

    The newly transformed venue will operate seven days a week, prioritising an exceptional drinks selection, delicious food, and an unbeatable atmosphere that will make it the go-to spot in Oakham's town center.

    "We can't wait to welcome everyone back to Oakham's newest and most exciting venue," 

    The George Inn Oakham Acquires The Lord Nelson, Market Place, Oakham, Rutland

    The George Inn Oakham Acquires The Lord Nelson, Market Place, Oakham, Rutland


    The George Inn Oakham has announced the acquisition of The Lord Nelson pub, a well-known pub in the town's Market Place.

    The Lord Nelson will reopen its doors this Friday at midday as a festive pop-up, offering a welcoming space for locals and visitors to enjoy drinks in the lead-up to the New Year.

    Proprietor Ryck Turner expressed enthusiasm about the new addition to their portfolio. "We are excited to bring The Lord Nelson back to life," he stated. "Our immediate focus is on providing a high-quality and affordable drinks experience for the Christmas season."

    However, the pub will be temporarily closed, after New Year's Eve to allow the George Inn team to explore the best long-term use for the building.

    "We are carefully considering various options," Turner explained. "These include operating the pub ourselves, leasing it to another experienced pub operator, or exploring innovative ways to repurpose the space to best serve the community."

    Until then, the George Inn invites everyone to experience the festive cheer at The Lord Nelson in the coming weeks.

    Rutland Council Seeks Public Input on Housing Strategy, Rutland County Council is currently seeking public feedback on its proposed Housing, Homelessness, and Rough Sleeping Strategy for the years 2025 to 2030.

    Rutland Council Seeks Public Input on Housing Strategy, Rutland County Council is currently seeking public feedback on its proposed Housing, Homelessness, and Rough Sleeping Strategy for the years 2025 to 2030.

    Rutland Council Seeks Public Input on Housing Strategy


    Rutland County Council is currently seeking public feedback on its proposed Housing, Homelessness, and Rough Sleeping Strategy for the years 2025 to 2030. 

    The public consultation is open now and invites residents to review the draft strategy and share their thoughts.

    The proposed strategy outlines several key objectives, including:

    • Preventing Homelessness: Providing housing options, advice, and support to individuals and families at risk of homelessness.
    • Supporting Vulnerable Households: Collaborating with partner organizations to offer targeted support to vulnerable groups.
    • Promoting Sustainable Growth: Ensuring the delivery of necessary housing growth, including the construction of at least 40 affordable homes per year, as outlined in the Local Plan.
    • Improving Existing Housing: Ensuring that existing homes are safe, warm, and suitable for residents' needs.

    The full draft strategy can be accessed on the Rutland County Council website or by requesting a physical copy.

    https://www.rutland.gov.uk/sites/default/files/2024-11/draft_housing_homelessness_and_rough_sleeping_strategy_2025_to_2030_appendix_a_v.0.56.pdf

    How to Provide Feedback:

    Residents can submit their feedback online through a dedicated form on the Council's website.

    https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/DJPKTNS

    The public consultation period is open until 

    The Council encourages all interested parties to participate in this important process and contribute to shaping the future of housing in Rutland.





    Empty Promise: Longhurst Group's (Amplius, The Longhurst Group and Grand Union Housing) Mismanaged Oakham Property

    Empty Promise: Longhurst Group's Mismanaged Oakham Property

    A social housing flat owned by the Longhurst Group in Willow Crescent, Oakham has remained vacant for over two years, despite the pressing need for affordable housing in the area. The property, which was renovated to a high standard after the previous tenant's passing, has since been listed for sale multiple times, raising concerns about the group's management of its housing stock.

    After a significant investment in renovations, the Longhurst Group opted to list the property on the open market at an apparent bargain price of £89,000, including freehold ownership of the entire block. This offer, coupled with a minimal ground rent income of £30 per year and the responsibility for building insurance administration and future maintenance costs, failed to attract buyers.

    Subsequently, the property was put up for auction today, but once again, it did not sell. This series of unsuccessful attempts to sell the property has led to frustration and disappointment among local residents who are struggling to find affordable housing.

    The incident has also highlighted concerns about the Longhurst Group's approach to property management. The decision to sell the property rather than re-letting it as social housing has raised questions about the group's priorities and its commitment to providing affordable housing for those in need.

    Local residents are urging the Longhurst Group to reconsider its strategy and prioritise the use of the property for social housing. By placing a tenant in the property, the group could not only address the housing shortage but also generate rental income to offset the costs of the renovation.

    As the housing crisis continues to worsen, it is imperative that social housing providers like the Longhurst Group take steps to maximize the utilisation of their properties and ensure that they are serving the needs of the community.

    Once Again the Longhurst Group is merging with another housing association, this time it will change its name to Amplius


    The Longhurst Group currently has other vacant properties 
    in Willow Crescent and other areas.

    Monday, December 16, 2024

    Christmas Bin Collection Changes in Rutland, Tips for Managing Waste Over the Holidays, Reduce, Reuse, Recycle,Food Waste,Household Waste Recycling Centres Information, Christmas tree recycling

    Christmas Bin Collection Changes in Rutland

    As the festive season approaches, it's important to be aware of changes to your regular bin collection schedule in Rutland.

    • Affected Bins: Only grey and black bin collections will be affected.   
    • No Green Bin Collections: There will be no green bin collections during this period.   
    • Check Your Specific Dates:  
    Normal collection dateRevised collection date
    Monday 23 December 2024Saturday 21 December 2024
    Tuesday 24 December 2024Monday 23 December 2024
    Wednesday 25 December 2024 (Christmas Day)Tuesday 24 December 2024
    Thursday 26 December 2024 (Boxing Day)Friday 27 December 2024
    Friday 27 December 2024Saturday 28 December 2024
    Monday 30 December 2024Monday 30 December 2024 (no change)
    Tuesday 31 December 2024Tuesday 31 December 2024 (no change)
    Wednesday 1 January 2025Thursday 2 January 2025
    Thursday 2 January 2025Friday 3 January 2025
    Friday 3 January 2025Saturday 4 January 2025


    Tips for Managing Waste Over the Holidays:

    Reduce, Reuse, Recycle: Minimise waste by buying only what you need, reusing gift bags and wrapping paper, and recycling cardboard and paper.



    Food Waste: Compost food scraps or dispose of them in your food waste caddy if available.




    Excess Waste: If you generate more waste than usual, consider taking it to your local recycling center.

    Household Waste Recycling Centres

    HWRCs will be open as normal, with the exception of the following dates:


    Date                                                     Cottesmore HWRC     North Luffenham HWRC

    24 December 2024 (Christmas Eve)        Closed                     Closes at 3pm

    25 December 2024 (Christmas Day)        Closed                     Closed            

    26 December 2024 (Boxing Day)             Closed                     Closed

    31 December 2024 (New Year's Eve)        Closed                     Closes at 3pm

    1 January 2025 (New Year's Day)      Closed                     Closed


    Recycling over the Christmas period can be a bit tricky, but Rutland County Council has a solution! They're providing households with an extra blue bag to help you recycle all those extra cardboard boxes, wrapping paper, and other festive materials.


    Here's how it works:

    Fill up your blue bag: Once your regular grey bin is full, start using the extra blue bag for all your additional recycling.

    Place it next to your bin: On your usual collection day, put the full blue bag next to your grey recycling bin.

    No other side waste: Please make sure there's no other waste next to the bin, as the collection crews can only take the blue bag and grey bin.

    What can you recycle in the blue bag?

    Cardboard boxes (flattened)
    Wrapping paper (without glitter or foil)
    Plastic bottles and pots, tubs and trays
    Metal cans and tins
    Glass bottles and jars


    If you subscribe to the Green waste subscription service, you can use your green bin to dispose of your real Christmas tree. Please ensure that the lid can close on the bin - you may need to cut the tree into smaller pieces to allow this.


    Additional tips for Christmas tree recycling:

    Remove all decorations, lights, and tinsel from the tree before disposing of it.
    If your tree is too large to fit in your green bin, you can cut it into smaller pieces.
    You can also take your Christmas tree to your local recycling center.

    What happens to recycled Christmas trees?

    Recycled Christmas trees are turned into mulch or compost, which can be used in gardens and parks.

    By recycling your Christmas tree, you are helping to reduce waste and protect the environment.