Oakham Unites in Silent Witness and a Profound Good Friday in the Market Square, Easter Day Service Times across Rutland, video and photos

Oakham Unites in Silent Witness and a Profound Good Friday in the Market Square

In a display of ecumenical unity, residents gathered on the streets of Oakham this Good Friday for the annual Walk of Witness. The silent procession served as a poignant reminder of the solemnity of the day, bringing together various denominations in a shared moment of reflection.

The walk commenced at the Chapel of St John and St Anne, where a simple wooden cross was hoisted to lead the way. The procession wound through the town center,  

The walk culminated at the Buttercross. This year’s open-air service was led by Revd Tom Bowring, Senior Minister of Oakham Baptist Church. Revd Bowring delivered a moving address that touched upon themes of sacrifice, hope, and the strength found in community.

"In a world often fractured, standing here together at the cross reminds us of the love that binds us all," Revd Bowring told the gathered crowd.

The service included hymns and prayers. Following the blessing, the local tradition of fellowship continued as volunteers distributed hot cross buns and good news bibles to onlookers and participants alike, a small but significant gesture of grace shared with the whole community.

As the town prepares for the joy of Easter Sunday, the Walk of Witness remains a cornerstone of Rutland’s Holy Week, proving that the message of Good Friday continues to resonate deeply within the local spirit.

Easter Day Service Times across Rutland

Sunday, 5 April 2026

The following is a guide to the celebratory services taking place across the county this Easter Sunday.

Oakham & Central Rutland

All Saints, Oakham Easter Eucharist 10:30 am

Oakham Baptist Church Easter Celebration 10:30 am

St Joseph’s (Catholic) Easter Mass 9:00 am & 11:00 am

St Andrew, Hambleton Holy Communion 9:15 am

St Edmund, Egleton Holy Communion 9:15 am

All Saints, Braunston Easter Holy Communion 11:00 am

St Mary, Brooke Easter Day Service 11:00 am

Rutland Water Benefice

St Andrew, Ridlington Sunrise Dawn Service 6:00 am

St Peter, Empingham All Age Service 10:00 am

St Peter & St Paul, Wing Easter Holy Communion 9:30 am

St Mary, Manton Easter Holy Communion 11:00 am

St Peter & St Paul, Preston Family Prayer Service 11:00 am

St Mary, Edith Weston Easter Eucharist 11:00 am

Uppingham & Surrounding Villages

St Peter & St Paul, Uppingham Festal Eucharist 10:45 am

St George, Lyddington Easter Holy Communion 9:30 am

St Mary, Morcott Easter Day Service 11:00 am

St Mary, South Luffenham Easter Holy Communion 9:30 am

Please note: While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, it is always advisable to check with individual parish websites or noticeboards for any last-minute changes to the schedule.

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Sun Shines on a Day of Delights: The Rutland Food, Drink, Craft Festival and Dog Show here in Oakham, Rutland, Today, Video and Photos

Sun Shines on a Day of Delights: The Rutland Food, Drink, Craft Festival and Dog Show

The sun is gloriously shining today, casting a perfect light over Oakham's bustling marketplace for the much-anticipated Rutland Food, Drink, Craft Festival and Dog Show. Organised by the indefatigable Carolyn Acton, this event has brought the heart of Rutland together for a celebration of local talent, delicious treats, and some very good boys and girls at the dog show in the grounds of Oakham Castle

Stalls brimming with an incredible variety of food, drink, and artisanal crafts in the Castle, Victoria Hall and the market place drawing in a steady stream of visitors. 

"It's just fantastic to see so many people out enjoying themselves," said organiser Carolyn Acton, a beaming smile on her face as she surveyed the scene. "The weather is perfect, and the stallholders have put on an amazing display. We've got everything from local producers to unique craftspeople. It's all about showcasing the very best of what Rutland has to offer."

The real highlight of the day for many has been the Dog Show. A cornerstone of the festival, the show has seen a wonderful turnout of four-legged friends, all eager to show off their skills (and charm). From the 'Waggiest Tail' and 'Most Obedient' categories to the coveted 'Best in Show,' the competition has been good-natured and full of fun. The proud owners and enthusiastic onlookers have created a wonderfully supportive and cheerful atmosphere.

The success of the festival is a testament to the hard work of Carolyn Acton and her team, as well as the unwavering support of the local community. It's more than just a market; it's a social occasion, a chance for neighbours to catch up, for families to spend quality time together, and for visitors to discover the unique charm of Rutland.

Rutland County Council Marks Merchant Navy Day with Flag Raising Ceremony at Oakham Castle, Video and Photos

Rutland County Council Marks Merchant Navy Day with Flag Raising Ceremony

The Lord Lieutenant of Rutland 

Dr Sarah Furness and Oakham Mayor

Cllr Christopher Nix 

In a touching tribute to the vital role of the Merchant Navy, Rutland County Council held a small but significant flag-raising ceremony today in the grounds of Oakham Castle. The event, which honoured Merchant Navy Day, brought together local dignitaries and members of the community to reflect on the immense contributions of seafarers.

The ceremony was marked by a poignant speech from the Lord-Lieutenant of Rutland, Dr. Sarah Furness. She spoke eloquently about the bravery and dedication of the men and women of the Merchant Navy, highlighting their crucial role in keeping the nation supplied, particularly during times of conflict and crisis. Dr. Furness's words underscored the enduring importance of the Merchant Navy's work, from transporting goods and raw materials to playing a key part in wartime operations.

Following her address, the flag was raised by a man who knows the service firsthand: Mark Woodcock. A former Merchant Navy man himself, Mr. Woodcock’s hands-on experience lent a special authenticity to the occasion. Mr. Woodcock, who is also a former Mayor of Oakham and a Town Councillor, performed the raising of the flag with a quiet dignity.

Rutland County Councillor Diane Ellison, (left) 

Councillor Kiloran Heckels (right)

Rupert Matthews Police and Crime Commissioner (left)

Cllr Dave Ainslie Uppingham Mayor (middle)

Councillor Kiloran Heckels

Oakham Mayor Cllr Chris Nix

The chairman of Rutland County Council 

Councillor Andrew Brown