Planning a festive shop in Oakham and Uppingham? Tesco, Co-op, Aldi, Lidl Christmas and New Year Opening. 2025 - 2026

Planning a festive shop in Oakham and Uppingham? Tesco, Co-op, Aldi, Lidl Christmas and New Year Opening. 2025 - 2026

Planning a festive shop in Oakham and Rutland? 

To help you navigate the busy holiday season, here is the complete guide to the Tesco Oakham Superstore opening hours for Christmas 2025 and the start of 2026.

Tesco Oakham Christmas Opening Hours 2025

The store will be operating most nights until 10:00 PM (22:00), with the exception of Sundays and Christmas Eve.

Date	Day	Opening Hours
16 December	Tuesday	08:00 – 22:00
17 December	Wednesday	08:00 – 22:00
18 December	Thursday	08:00 – 22:00
19 December	Friday	08:00 – 22:00
20 December	Saturday	08:00 – 22:00
21 December	Sunday	10:00 – 16:00
22 December	Monday	08:00 – 22:00
23 December	Tuesday	08:00 – 22:00
24 December	Christmas Eve	08:00 – 19:00
25 December	Christmas Day	CLOSED
26 December	Boxing Day	CLOSED
27 December	Saturday	08:00 – 22:00
28 December	Sunday	10:00 – 16:00

New Year 2025 - 2026 Opening Times

Tesco Superstores nationwide typically follow a standard pattern for the New Year. For the Oakham Superstore, you can expect the following:

• New Year’s Eve (Tuesday, 31 Dec): Most Superstores will close early, typically around 18:00 or 19:00, to allow staff to celebrate.

• New Year’s Day (Wednesday, 1 Jan): check the Tesco Store Locator nearer the day

• 2 January 2026: Normal trading hours (08:00 – 22:00) usually resume from this date.

• Tip: If you are using Click+Collect, remember that these slots often end an hour or two before the main store closes. It is highly recommended to check the Tesco Store Locator for live updates on New Year's Day specifically, as these can be subject to last-minute changes.

Essential Shopping Reminders

• Boxing Day Closure: Note that  the Oakham Superstore is clearly marked as Closed on Boxing Day this year.

Aldi Oakham Opening Hours

Hackamore Way, Barleythorpe

Date	Day	Opening Hours
22 December	Monday	07:00 – 22:00
23 December	Tuesday	07:00 – 22:00
24 December	Christmas Eve	07:00 – 18:00
25 December	Christmas Day	CLOSED
26 December	Boxing Day	CLOSED
27 December	Saturday	08:00 – 20:00
28 December	Sunday	10:00 – 16:00
31 December	New Year’s Eve	08:00 – 18:00
1 January	New Year’s Day	CLOSED
2 January	Friday	08:00 – 22:00

Lidl Oakham Opening Hours

Barleythorpe Road

Lidl’s hours are very similar, though they traditionally open slightly later than Aldi on Christmas Eve.

Date	Day	Opening Hours
22 December	Monday	07:00 – 22:00
23 December	Tuesday	07:00 – 22:00
24 December	Christmas Eve	07:00 – 18:00
25 December	Christmas Day	CLOSED
26 December	Boxing Day	CLOSED
27 December	Saturday	08:00 – 22:00
31 December	New Year’s Eve	08:00 – 18:00
1 January	New Year’s Day	CLOSED
2 January	Friday	08:00 – 22:00

Central Co-op Burley Road Oakham (Food & Petrol)

The petrol station usually opens at the same time as the store, though "pay at pump" may be available outside these hours if the system allows.

Date	Day	Store & Petrol Station Hours
23 December	Tuesday	07:30 – 21:00
24 December	Christmas Eve	07:00 – 20:00
25 December	Christmas Day	CLOSED
26 December	Boxing Day	09:00 – 17:00
27 December	Saturday	07:30 – 20:00
28 December	Sunday	10:00 – 16:00
31 December	New Year’s Eve	07:00 – 20:00
1 January	New Year’s Day	09:00 – 17:00
2 January	Friday	07:30 – 21:00 (Normal)

Important Details for this Location

• Insomnia Cafe: The cafe inside the Burley Road store usually operates on a slightly different schedule. While the store opens at 07:00/07:30, the cafe often starts at 08:00 and closes around 17:00 or 18:00, even when the main store remains open until 20:00.

• Fuel Convenience: If you are traveling on Christmas Eve, aim to fill up before 20:00, as most local stations will shut down until the morning of the 26th.

• Boxing Day & New Year's Day: This store is a great backup because it remains open on Boxing Day and New Year's Day (unlike Aldi and Lidl), making it ideal for picking up emergency fuel or fresh food when others are closed.

Note: Opening hours can sometimes be adjusted by an hour based on local staff availability. If you are making a special trip for fuel late at night, you can call the store directly at 01572 724344.

 

Central Co-op Braunston Road Opening Hours

Date	Day	Opening Hours
23 December	Tuesday	07:00 – 22:00
24 December	Christmas Eve	07:00 – 21:00
25 December	Christmas Day	CLOSED
26 December	Boxing Day	08:00 – 18:00
27–30 Dec	"Betwixmas"	07:00 – 22:00 (Normal)
31 December	New Year’s Eve	07:00 – 21:00
1 January	New Year’s Day	08:00 – 18:00
2 January	Friday	07:00 – 22:00

The phone number for the Central Co-op on Braunston Road, Oakham, is:

01572 720593

Uppingham Co-op Festive Opening Hours

22 North Street East, Uppingham, LE15 9QL

The Uppingham Co-op (located on North Street East) is part of the national Co-op Group, the opening hours are different from Oakham's Co-op's 

Date	Day	Opening Hours
23 December	Tuesday	06:00 – 22:00
24 December	Christmas Eve	06:00 – 19:00
25 December	Christmas Day	CLOSED
26 December	Boxing Day	10:00 – 19:00
27–30 Dec	"Betwixmas"	06:00 – 22:00 (Normal)
31 December	New Year’s Eve	06:00 – 19:00
1 January	New Year’s Day	10:00 – 19:00
2 January	Friday	06:00 – 22:00

Phone Number: 01572 821903

Increased Emergency Presence in Oakham This Morning

Increased Emergency Presence in Oakham This Morning

A significant emergency response was noted in Oakham, Rutland, this morning, involving a large presence of Leicester Police, supported by the Ambulance Service and the Air Ambulance.

The services were attending an incident, though the nature of it has not been disclosed at this time.

Rutland Police are urging residents not to worry, indicating there is no ongoing risk to the wider community. They have also requested that the privacy of the families involved is respected during this time.

New Chapter in Rutland Rev. Peter Collins Installed as Rector of the Rutland Water Benefice

New Chapter in Rutland Rev. Peter Collins Installed as Rector of the Rutland Water Benefice

The lengthy 17-month wait for an incumbent across the ten parishes of the Rutland Water Benefice has finally come to an end. The benefice, which covers the southern and eastern sides of beautiful Rutland Water, has officially welcomed The Rev. Peter Collins as its new Rector.

The installation ceremony took place on Wednesday, December 10th, at St Peter's Church, Empingham, marking the beginning of a new phase of ministry for the rural community. The event was met with great enthusiasm and was attended by key figures including Bishop Debbie of Peterborough, Rural Dean Jane Baxter, Vice Lord-Lieutenant of Rutland Jeannette Warner, and the Church Wardens of the benefice.

Rev. Collins, who has served for the last 11 years as the Rector of the Hykeham Benefice in Lincoln, is now returning to a familiar setting. He and his wife, Sally, expressed their excitement about the move, stating they "look forward to returning to rural ministry in the beautiful Rutland Water Benefice."

The new Rector will be overseeing a group of parishes, each boasting beautiful medieval churches. Rev. Collins shared his personal enthusiasm: "I look forward to serving... as Rector of the Rutland Water Benefice, and excited to be joining Peterborough Diocese."

Rev. Collins arrives with a reputation for being deeply embedded in the community. One former parishioner from Hykeham offered a glowing, heartfelt tribute to his character.

"Peter is our local vicar. He’s not your usual Vicar. He likes the pub and local interaction. He’s a man of the community, he’s a man who is fighting his own demons but has put that aside for his parishioners. He’s the only man of God that I’ve ever met that has put the public before anything else. Peter, you sir are an inspiration, an honour to know and a light that Hykeham loves."

This commitment to public life and local interaction suggests a vibrant and approachable ministry for the Rutland parishes.

Beyond his spiritual duties, Rev. Collins and Sally are eager to embrace their new environment. They are looking forward to getting to know everyone and "discovering new walks and exploring new places with their dog ‘Lady’."

Parishioners should keep an eye out for their new Rector he is known for his practical approach to travel and is likely to be spotted "whizzing to and from his many churches here in Rutland perhaps on a motorbike or even a quad bike" as he manages his new, extensive benefice.

The Rutland Water Benefice is thrilled to have Rev. Collins and Sally on board, bringing a fresh wave of energy and dedication to their historic churches and communities.

Light Up the Season Christingle Service in Great Casterton

Light Up the Season Christingle Service in Great Casterton

Families are warmly invited to a very special and meaningful festive service this December at St Peter and St Paul Great Casterton Church.

The beautiful parish church in Great Casterton will be hosting a family-friendly Christingle Service on Sunday, December 14, 2025. This cherished event is a wonderful way to celebrate the true meaning of Christmas in a bright and accessible way for all ages.

The service will take place from 4:00 PM to 5:00 PM (16:00 - 17:00).
Christingle is a symbolic service where each person receives a Christingle orange, representing the world, decorated with a red ribbon (representing the blood of Christ), four sticks holding sweets or dried fruit (representing the four seasons and the fruits of the earth), and a candle (representing Christ, the Light of the World). It is a truly uplifting and poignant experience, especially for children.

Detail	Information
Event	Christingle Service
Date	Sunday, 14 December 2025
Time	16:00 - 17:00 (4:00 PM - 5:00 PM)
Venue	St Peter And St Paul Great Casterton Church, Main Street, Great Casterton, PE9 4AP
Focus	A very family-friendly service celebrating the light of Christ.

A Celebration of Light

The Christingle service is designed to be highly engaging for families, providing a peaceful and joyful moment amidst the busy run-up to Christmas. Everyone is welcome to join in this uplifting celebration of light and hope.

The church is located on Main Street in Great Casterton, and visitors are encouraged to arrive a little early to find a seat and settle in for this memorable seasonal event.

Festive Fun Arrives Cottesmore Children's Christmas Celebrations

Festive Fun Arrives Cottesmore Children's Christmas Celebrations

Get ready for an afternoon packed with Christmas cheer! Cottesmore Village Hall is set to host a wonderful Children's Christmas Celebrations event on Sunday, December 14, 2025, guaranteeing a fantastic start to the festive season for local families.

From 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM, children will be able to dive into an exciting range of seasonal activities. The Village Hall will be transformed into a winter wonderland of fun, offering everything needed for a perfect pre-Christmas outing.

What's On Offer?

For just £5 per child, attendees can enjoy a host of engaging activities:

• Crafts: Little hands can get creative with festive Christmas crafts to take home.

• Games: Exciting games designed to entertain and delight all ages.

• Refreshments: Tasty treats and drinks to keep the energy levels high!

• Stories with Santa and Gifts! The highlight of the day will undoubtedly be a special visit from Santa Claus himself, who will be sharing stories and handing out a gift to every child.

Event Details at a Glance

Detail	Information
Event	Children’s Christmas Celebrations
Date	Sunday, 14 December 2025
Time	14:00 - 16:00 (2:00 PM - 4:00 PM)
Venue	Cottesmore Village Hall, 23 Main Street, Cottesmore, LE15 7DH
Price	£5 per child
Includes	Crafts, Games, Refreshments, Stories with Santa and Gifts

The event promises to be a great value occasion, focusing on bringing the community together for some genuine festive magic. It's the perfect opportunity for local children to get into the Christmas spirit, meet Father Christmas, and enjoy some fun with friends before the big day arrives.

Oakham Deputy Mayor Cllr Douthwaite Resigns in Dramatic Fashion

 Oakham Deputy Mayor Cllr Douthwaite Resigns in Dramatic Fashion

Oakham Town Council was the scene of an extraordinary and highly unusual event this evening as Deputy Mayor, Councillor Douthwaite, dramatically resigned from her post. The resignation, effective immediately, unfolded publicly and involved the Town Clerk reading out a highly unprofessional and sharply worded letter while Ms Douthwaite herself observed from the public gallery.

An Unprecedented Resignation Reading

The routine business of the Town Council meeting was disrupted by the announcement of Cllr Douthwaite's resignation. In a move described by some attendees as highly irregular, the Town Clerk took the floor and proceeded to read the full contents of Ms Douthwaite’s resignation letter aloud to the Council and those in attendance.

The contents of the letter reportedly deviated significantly from the standard professional courtesy expected in such documents. the letter was intensely "unprofessional and bitter in tone," and centered on a series of sharp allegations and personal insults directed towards an unnamed, currently serving Town Councillor.

"A Horrid Little Man"

The acrimonious nature of the letter culminated in a striking and inflammatory final assessment of the target councillor. Ms Douthwaite's resignation concluded with the scathing words, read out for all to hear: "He is not your friend and he is a horrid little man."

The unusual decision by the Town Clerk to read such a volatile document in its entirety, especially with the author present, has already sparked considerable debate about Council protocol and transparency.

"Good Riddance"

The tension in the chamber following the letter's reading was palpable. Immediately upon the Clerk concluding the final sentence, a swift and blunt response came from the floor. Councillor Brookes reacted to the dramatic exit by unequivocally stating: "Good riddance."

This single, sharp comment encapsulates the evident deep division and fractured relationships within the Council that appear to have precipitated the Deputy Mayor’s resignation.

The episode marks a turbulent end to Cllr Douthwaite’s tenure as Deputy Mayor and a dramatic low point for the cohesion of Oakham Town Council.

The Council will now need to address the vacancy for the Deputy Mayor position.

The events of December 10th have cast a considerable shadow over Oakham's local governance, highlighting internal conflicts that have now spilled into the public arena in the most sensational way possible.

UK Local Council Conduct and Resignation Protocol Guidance

The dramatic events described in Oakham Town Council raise several questions regarding standard local government protocol, specifically concerning councillor conduct, the public reading of correspondence, and allegations against serving members.

Here is a summary of the general guidelines and principles that apply to Town/Parish Councils in the UK, based on the statutory framework and best practice models like those from the Local Government Association (LGA):

1. Councillor Code of Conduct

The central issue of the Deputy Mayor's letter containing insults and allegations relates directly to the Localism Act 2011 and the Code of Conduct adopted by every Council (including Oakham Town Council, which has its own published policy). 

Editors Note: Now that she has resigned the code does not apply to her it did at the time she was  writing her letter. Local Government Law is a odd thing.

Principle	Relevance to the Resignation
Respect	Councillors are expected to treat other councillors, staff, and the public with respect. The use of inflammatory language and personal insults ("horrid little man") would constitute a likely breach of the Respect element of the Code.
Integrity / Honesty	The Code requires councillors to uphold high standards. Making unsubstantiated or bitter public allegations, particularly in an official document, contravenes the spirit of these principles.
Leadership	Councillors are expected to promote and support the Code's principles by leadership and example. A dramatic and aggressive resignation sets a poor example for public office.

Rutland Police Update Proactive Policing Strikes Against Drug Supply

Rutland Police Update Proactive Policing Strikes Against Drug Supply

The Rutland Neighbourhood Policing Team has demonstrated a robust and varied response to community needs, tackling everything from rural hazards to serious organised crime. A key update from Inspector Darren Richardson highlights the team's relentless focus on their priority areas, particularly the disruption of illegal drug supply networks within the community.

Inspector Darren Richardson provided a focused update regarding proactive work carried out by officers over a recent weekend, which successfully disrupted a potential county lines operation.

Following targeted intelligence, officers stopped a vehicle on Branston Road, Uppingham. A search of the driver quickly led to the seizure of suspected Class A drugs and cash.The action was immediately followed up with a search at an associated home address, resulting in the recovery of further drugs and the subsequent arrest of a second man.

Ronaldo Cani was charged with possession with intent to supply a Class A drug and possession of an offensive weapon in a public place.

Xhezar Cani was charged with possession with intent to supply a Class B drug.

Insp Richardson affirmed that tackling drug dealing and county lines remains a priority for the Rutland Neighbourhood Policing Team. Residents can expect to see visible patrols and targeted activity continuing to secure the community.

Community intelligence is vital. If you have information about drug dealing, report it on 101 or contact Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111. Always call 999 in an emergency.

The command update is complemented by an extensive log of routine and emergency work, illustrating the full spectrum of duties handled by officers, including PC 1049 Jake Spruce, PC McKinnon, PCSO Lauren, and PCSO Beth:

Officers responded to multiple Road Traffic Collisions (RTCs), including a 3-vehicle incident, emphasising the need to drive to the conditions as winter weather deteriorates.

PC McKinnon highlighted the critical need for safe recovery practices after a dangerous incident on the A1, stressing that safety MUST take precedence over cost. Furthermore, officers dealt with a dangerous pothole on the A1 near Stamford, swiftly notifying the Highways Agency for repair.

Emergency help was provided for broken-down vehicles in dangerous live lanes, with a reminder for drivers to immediately activate hazards, get to safety, and call for help.

Proactive mobile patrols led by PCSO Lauren and PC Preston resulted in the seizure of drug paraphernalia and a vehicle in an area known for drug activity, using the power granted by Section 163 of the Road Traffic Act to stop the vehicle.

Following a burglary at a business premises, the team issued a renewed plea for residents and businesses to ensure property and outbuildings are secured as the darker evenings continue.

The team's commitment extends to rural concerns, including handling the unusual call of cows in the road conducting safeguarding visits for vulnerable people, and performing ASB patrols.

PCSO Beth, covering the south Rutland beat, continues to conduct extensive foot patrols to familiarise herself with the villages and encourages residents to raise any concerns directly.

PCSO Lauren actively supported the frontline by assisting with RTCs, performing welfare checks, and managing the Oakham Front Enquiry Desk.

The Rutland Police team is actively seeking community input as they prepare for the vital review of local priorities in January 2026.

This is the best opportunity for residents to influence the future focus of their local policing efforts. Please share your views now via the Neighbourhood Link:  https://leicspolice.link/dSRO0 

The Neighbourhood team is on duty, and the 24/7 response team is available for any emergency needs.