RAF Veterans Unveil Two New Memorial Benches in Oakham Library Gardens, Photographs and Video

Two new memorial benches were officially unveiled this morning in the Oakham Library Gardens, offering a permanent space for reflection behind the Queen Elizabeth II memorial statue. The poignant addition is the result of a dedicated four-month fundraising campaign led by two local Royal Air Force veterans.

Veterans Barry Swallow and Ian Reynolds successfully raised nearly £4,000 to fund the project through a combination of private donations and vital support from community partners, including the Oakham Memorial Institute, RAFA Rutland, and the Oakham Tesco store.

 

The unveiling ceremony brought together prominent community leaders and military figures. 

The Lord-Lieutenant of Rutland and the Rutland High Sheriff jointly unveiled the benches alongside Air Marshal Philip Sturley, a former commander at RAF Cottesmore who now serves as the President of RAFA Rutland and the RBL Rutland Branch.

The installation features two distinct tributes. One bench pays tribute to the three former RAF bases in Rutland, the aircraft that operated from them, and all the personnel who served. The second serves as a dedicated Remembrance bench honouring members of all the armed forces.

The new seating provides residents and visitors with a serene space to honour local military heritage and reflect on the service and sacrifice of the armed forces community.

Photos above by Martin Brookes

Photos Below Pippy Woodley

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Christmas Tree Festival St Mary's Church Melton Mowbray Leicestershire 2025, Photographs and Video

Christmas Tree Festival St Mary's Church Melton Mowbray Leicestershire 2025, Photographs and Video

     

Uppingham Braves the Weather for Christmas Late Night Shopping, Photographs and Video

Uppingham Braves the Weather for Christmas Late Night Shopping, Photographs and Video

Uppingham Braves the Weather for Christmas Late Night Shopping

Despite the weather, Uppingham residents and visitors alike turned out in force last night for the annual Christmas Late Night Shopping event. The town centre was bustling with activity, as people sought refuge in local hotels and pubs to escape the rain.

A highlight of the evening was the Christmas tree lighting ceremony, which took place despite the downpour. The High Sheriff of Rutland, Richard Cole, and Rob Persani from Rutland and Stamford Sound joined together to officially switch on the lights, bringing festive cheer to the town. The primary school choir added to the festive atmosphere with their beautiful singing

While the Corby Silver Band found shelter in the parish church, which was transformed into a winter wonderland with charity stalls and a Santa's grotto, the Town Hall hosted a bustling Christmas Craft Market.

 

Despite the challenging weather conditions, the Uppingham community came together to celebrate the festive season and support local businesses who remained open.