By Local Democracy & Public Affairs Reporter not affiliated to the BBC LDRS
Oakham Town Council has officially published its unaudited Annual Governance and Accountability Return (AGAR) for the financial year ending 31 March 2026
As this document is currently awaiting review by an external auditor, it remains subject to change
In the interest of transparency and accountability, local residents and stakeholders have important legal rights to inspect these records and engage with the audit process
How to Exercise Your Rights
Whether you are an interested person, a local government elector, or a representative, you have specific avenues to review and question the council's financial conduct.
Inspecting the Accounts
Any interested person has the right to inspect and make copies of the accounting records, including books, deeds, contracts, bills, vouchers, and receipts
Inspection Period: You may exercise this right for a 30-working-day period, starting on Tuesday, 30 June 2026, and ending on Monday, 10 August 2026
How to Apply: You must provide reasonable notice to the Locum Clerk/RFO to arrange your inspection
Contact: Samantha Haywood, Locum Clerk/RFO
Address: Rol House, Long Row, Oakham, Rutland LE15 6LN
Email: townclerk@oakhamtowncouncil.gov.uk
Phone: 01572 723627
Asking Questions
If you are a local government elector, you have the right to ask the appointed external auditor questions about the accounting records
Process: It is advised that you put your questions in writing
Scope: Please note that the auditor can only answer "what" questions regarding the records, not "why" questions
Timing: Questions must be directed to the auditor during the 30-day inspection period mentioned above
Making Objections
Local government electors may object to an item of account if they believe it is unlawful or warrants a public interest report
Requirements: You must provide clear, written evidence to support your objection, explaining why you believe the item is unlawful or a matter of public interest
Notification: Written notice must be sent to the appointed auditor, with a copy simultaneously sent to the Town Council
Important Note: The right to object is not intended for personal complaints against the authority; such matters should be directed to a solicitor, the Citizens' Advice Bureau, or a local Law Centre
Contacting the External Auditor
The appointed auditor for the 2025/26 review is Moore East Midlands
Moore East Midlands (Ref AP/HD)
Rutland House
Minerva Business Park
Lynch Wood
Peterborough
PE2 6PZ
Please note: The auditor must consider the cost involved in investigating objections, and will only proceed if it is in the public interest to do so
