Classic Wheels Makes a Triumphant Return to Rutland Showground, Oakham, Rutland, Photographs

By Martin Brookes

The sound of roaring V8 engines and the gleam of impeccably polished chrome took over the Rutland Showground today as Classic Wheels made its highly anticipated return. 

Far from just a standard, static vehicle display, today’s event delivered a full-throttle celebration of engineering history and deep-seated personal passion. From early morning onwards, the spacious grounds filled with an eclectic mix of machinery spanning decades and continents. Walking through the vast rows of exhibits felt like stepping directly into a time machine, with more than a thousand meticulously maintained vehicles offering a rich timeline of motoring heritage to satisfy every imaginable taste.

In one corner of the field, impeccably restored vintage automobiles from the golden age of motoring took center stage, reminding attendees of an era when cars were as much about artistic craftsmanship as they were about basic transport. Nearby, the atmosphere shifted to the high-horsepower spirit of American muscle, where the popular "Big Boy Toys" section delivered heavy-duty chrome, iconic silhouettes, and massive, rumbling engines from across the Atlantic.

The diversity extended well beyond traditional four-wheelers. Two-wheel legends enjoyed a massive turnout today, showcasing everything from sleek, retro urban scooters to rugged, custom-built motorcycles. 

Classic Wheels proved to be a multi-generational, full-day experience by seamlessly blending automotive excellence with a stellar lineup of live entertainment. Music fans gathered around the main stage all afternoon to enjoy a wave of nostalgic sounds. Motown and Northern Soul star Malcolm Fovargue teamed up with Soul Sister Sandra. Later, the crowd laced up their dancing shoes as The Rewinders took the stage. The powerhouse four-piece band, featuring former members of Edison Lighthouse, The Berries, and The Yarebeats, had the showground twisting and shouting to a vibrant medley of iconic 1960s hits.

The excitement wasn't just contained to the ground displays, as the skies and the main arena provided their own high-octane thrills. Visitors kept their eyes firmly glued upward for a Spitfire flypast courtesy of the legendary Battle of Britain Memorial Flight team. Adrenaline levels spiked during the Extreme Bike Battle. This stunt show fused multiple cycling and motorcycling disciplines into an ultimate action spectacle, where world-class performers pushed their physical limits to execute jaw-dropping tricks and flips that left the crowd completely spellbound.

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From Off-Grid to On-Foot The Heartfelt Journey of "Bimbling Home" Through Oakham, Rutland

The streets of Oakham, Rutland, are playing host to two very special visitors this afternoon as Dave and Jac Hoping arrive in town, marking a significant milestone in their cross-country trek. The couple is currently in the midst of a purposeful journey from Cambridgeshire to Yorkshire an expedition they have dubbed "Bimbling Home" all in the name of community mental health and wellbeing.

For the past three years, Dave and Jac have lived a quiet, intentional life off-grid in the Cambridgeshire countryside. However, a spark of inspiration last year set them on a new path, prompting them to trade their stationary life for hiking boots and a mission to give back to their roots. Their goal is as ambitious as their walk: to raise the necessary funds to open a non-profit micro-pub and community hub back in  Yorkshire.

This isn't your average pub project. Drawing on their professional backgrounds in hospitality and the arts, the Hopings envision a space where the culture of craft beer, live music, and creative expression serves a higher purpose. Under their non-profit model, the proceeds from the commercial side of the hub will be directly funneled back into the community, supporting a range of vital services designed to bolster mental health and local connectivity.

The project represents a "blending" of passions using the social atmosphere of a micro-pub as a sustainable engine for social good. By integrating the arts and music into the venue, they hope to create a sanctuary where people can find not just a drink, but a sense of belonging and support.

As they navigate the paths through Rutland today, Dave and Jac carry with them the hopes of a community yet to be built. Their arrival in Oakham signifies the steady progress of a journey fueled by empathy and the desire to make a tangible difference in the lives of those around them. For those who encounter them on their way to the Yorkshire border, they represent a powerful reminder that sometimes, the long way home is the best way to start something new.

https://positive-earth-community.com/bimbling-home/

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Summer of Sound Free Live Music at Cutts Close Park, Oakham, Rutland, 2026 Calendar.

by Martin Brookes orneditor@post.com

Summer of Sound Free Live Music at Cutts Close Park, 

Oakham, Rutland, 2026 Calendar.

Dust off your picnic blankets and prepare for a summer of music in the park. Oakham Town Council is has announced the return of the Summer Sunday Concerts at the Queen Elizabeth II Bandstand in Cutts Close Park, Oakham, Rutland.

Running from late June through the end of August, these events offer the perfect backdrop for a quintessential British summer afternoon. Whether you are a local resident or a visitor to the beautiful market town, you are cordially invited to enjoy local talent in the sunshine* (*not guaranteed)

The performances are scheduled for every Sunday (plus Bank Holiday Monday) throughout the summer season.

Performances typically start at 2:30 PM.

The performances are completely FREE to attend. These events are proudly funded by the local taxpayers of Oakham, with the Town Council investing £9,110 this year.

Refreshments and food are normally available on-site, but Cutts Close is also a fantastic spot for a family and friends picnic.

While the music is free, local charities often pass a donation bucket around. Your generosity helps support vital work within the Rutland community.

The 2026 Lineup

21st June – The Houndogs

21st June – The Houndogs

Kicking off the season with, The Houndogs are a rockabilly band. Expect high-octane energy, wild stage antics, and a mix of 50s rock 'n' roll classics that will have the whole park dancing.  

Website: thehoundogs.co.uk

Facebook: The Houndogs

28th June – Armed Forces Day: Alan Jackson & The Rutland Big Band

In honor of Armed Forces Day, the Rutland Big Band brings the sophisticated sound of the swing era to the park. From Glenn Miller to Sinatra, they deliver a powerful, brassy performance that celebrates the best of big band jazz. There will be other attractions in the park for this event organised by The Lord Lieutenant of Rutland Dr Sarah Furness.

Website: rutlandbigband.org.uk

Facebook: Rutland Big Band

5th July – Bad Bayou

Bringing a taste of the swamp to Rutland, Bad Bayou specialises in Cajun and Zydeco music. Their accordion-led, foot-stomping rhythms are infectious and perfect for a mid-summer afternoon.

Facebook: Bad Bayou Band

12th July – Uppingham Soul and Jazz Band

A local favorite, this ensemble delivers smooth jazz standards and upbeat soul classics. Their polished sound is the ideal accompaniment to a relaxed Sunday picnic.

Facebook: Uppingham Soul and Jazz Band

19th July – Top Banana Band

This 9-piece soul, funk, and blues powerhouse is guaranteed to get people moving. With a full brass section and powerhouse vocals, they cover everything from Motown to modern funk.

Website: topbananaband.co.uk

Facebook: Top Banana Band

26th July – Idle Hands

An East Midlands-based 5-piece indie, rock, and pop covers band. Featuring both male and female vocals, they play a versatile range of hits from Oasis and AC/DC to Florence + The Machine.  

Facebook: Idle Hands

2nd August – Bongo Rat Pack

Expect a sophisticated afternoon of swing and "Rat Pack" cool. This group brings the glamour of Las Vegas to Oakham, performing timeless hits from Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, and Sammy Davis Jr.

Facebook: Bongo Rat Pack

9th August – Hathern Band

Showcasing the very best of British brass tradition, the Hathern Band is an award-winning First Section brass band. Their repertoire ranges from traditional marches to modern film scores.

Website: hathernband.co.uk

Facebook: Hathern Band

16th August – Kobras Band

Bringing a more contemporary edge to the bandstand, Kobras are known for their classic rock covers and soulful energy. A great act for those who love guitar-driven melodies.

Facebook: The Kobras

23rd August – Out of the Blue

A versatile party band that covers a wide spectrum of popular music across the decades. Known for their tight harmonies and engaging stage presence, they are always a crowd-pleaser.

Facebook: Out of the Blue Oakham

30th August – Bank Holiday Special: CJ Hatt and Vesper

A double-header to close out the season CJ Hatt is a highly popular acoustic soloist known for his huge repertoire of pop and rock hits, while Vesper provides a high-energy band experience to end the summer on a high note.

CJ Hatt Facebook: CJ Hatt

Vesper Facebook: Vesper Band

Please note: All performances are subject to weather conditions. For updates, please check the Oakham Town Council website or social media pages.

https://www.facebook.com/oakhamtowncouncil

https://oakhamtowncouncil.gov.uk/

Editor’s Note:

Our sincere thanks go to Cllr Sally-Anne Wadsworth and the dedicated members of the events committee, who work tirelessly to bring these community gatherings to life.

We would also like to recognise the invaluable support of Oakham Town Council’s Acting Deputy Clerk, Melanie Palmer, whose coordination and hard work behind the scenes ensure these events run smoothly for all to enjoy.

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