The High Sheriff of Rutland, Richard Chesterfield, has issued a poignant Christmas message alongside the announcement of three prestigious High Sheriff’s Awards.

The High Sheriff of Rutland, Richard Chesterfield, has issued a poignant Christmas message alongside the announcement of three prestigious High Sheriff’s Awards.

As the festive season settles over the county, the High Sheriff of Rutland, Richard Chesterfield, has issued a poignant Christmas message alongside the announcement of three prestigious High Sheriff’s Awards. The awards recognise local individuals whose selflessness and dedication have become the backbone of Rutland’s unique community spirit.

This year, the High Sheriff has chosen to spotlight those who bridge gaps in society from supporting veterans to caring for the elderly and those living with illness.

Mark and Tracey Taylor received an award for their "outstanding initiative" in establishing and maintaining the Armed Forces Veterans' Breakfast Club. Over the last seven years, the Taylors have created a vital sanctuary for veterans, ensuring that those who served have a consistent space for camaraderie and support.

In a remarkable display of lifelong service, Pam Hornby was also honored. At 90 years old, Pam continues to be a pillar of the Voluntary Action Rutland (VAR) Transport Team. Her unwavering commitment to helping others get where they need to go—long past the age when most have retired serves as an inspiration to the entire county.

The final award was presented to Christina Birkby of the Musical Memory Box. Christina was recognised for her profound dedication to residents suffering from dementia. Through the power of music and song, she has consistently brought "moments of joy" and connection to those facing difficult cognitive challenges.

In his seasonal message, Richard Chesterfield reflected on the strength of the Rutland community, emphasising that the county's beauty lies in the kindness of its people.

"Christmas is a time of love, happiness and faith," the High Sheriff stated. "I give joyous thanks to the wonderful people of Rutland who engage and offer the hand of friendship to others which improves lives, helps to build communities and makes our County such a wonderful place."

Looking toward the New Year, the High Sheriff urged residents to look out for one another and remain open-minded in an increasingly complex world.

"At Christmas time we should not forget those less fortunate than ourselves and offer our support and kindness where we can. Whether we are people of faith, or none, listen to each other, set aside prejudice and be open to new possibilities."

He concluded his message with a focus on the core meaning of the season: "The Christmas message is one of hope and redemption and so I wish you all, and those you love, a peaceful Christmas and a wonderful New Year."

RUTLAND 2025 A Year of Defiance, Devolution, and Fond Farewells

RUTLAND 2025 A Year of Defiance, Devolution, and Fond Farewells

By Our Local Democracy Reporter

As 2025 draws to a close, Rutland looks back on a year defined by an existential battle for its identity. From the corridors of Catmose to the historic streets of Uppingham, the "Smallest County" has spent the last twelve months proving it has the loudest voice.

The dominant headline of 2025 has been the Local Government Reorganisation (LGR). Under pressure from central government to form larger unitary authorities, Rutland County Council (RCC) found itself at a crossroads.

The #SaveRutland campaign, championed by MP Alicia Kearns and supported by over 7,000 signatories, became the heartbeat of local resistance. Protests peaked in March and April as residents fought to ensure that any move toward a "Greater Leicestershire" or "North Leicestershire and Rutland" model would not strip the county of its ceremonial status.

In a significant victory for local identity, the government confirmed in April that Rutland’s ceremonial status, Lord Lieutenant, and High Sheriff would be protected, regardless of the administrative outcome. However, the debate remains fierce; as of November, the Council has been weighing a "three-unitary" model against becoming a junior partner in a Leicester-led authority.

Uppingham Town Council made headlines this year with a bold letter to His Majesty King Charles III. In a move reflecting the town’s fierce independence, the Council reached out to the Crown to highlight the unique heritage of Rutland amidst the shifting sands of local government reform. This "Royal Petition" coincided with the successful July referendum on the Uppingham Neighbourhood Plan, which saw residents vote overwhelmingly to take control of their own planning future.

It has been a rocky year for local representation. Both Oakham and Uppingham Town Councils saw a string of resignations, with several long-standing members citing the "toxic" nature of modern local politics. 

Protests have not been confined to the council chambers. The "Call for Sites" update in the summer sparked planning protests across the county, as villagers in Edith Weston and Ketton rallied against proposed large-scale developments. Meanwhile, the successful "People Power" campaign in Ryhall managed to stave off the immediate threat of library closure, though the future of rural service delivery remains a point of contention in the 2025/26 budget.

The governance crisis at Oakham Town Council escalated significantly this summer, prompting a rare intervention from Rutland County Council’s Monitoring Officer. Following a surge in formal complaints accounting for nearly half of all conduct allegations across the entire county a confidential report was commissioned to investigate "significant underlying issues" within the authority.

The report was published by local media, was discussed by the County’s standards committee in July, highlighted a "toxic" culture marked by interpersonal friction and a worrying reliance on informal "late-night WhatsApp communications" for official business. The Monitoring Officer noted that the Council’s high vacancy rate and the frequent co-option of unelected members had created an unstable environment. In an effort to steer the authority back to stability, senior county staff and the Monitoring Officer staged a series of "governance training" meetings with Oakham’s councillors and staff this autumn. These sessions aimed to enforce a formal code of conduct and clarify reporting lines, as the Monitoring Officer warned that the current state of affairs was placing an "excessive burden" on public resources.

Rutland County Council also experienced moments of turmoil.

The political climate in Rutland reached a boiling point in August 2025, when Council Leader Gale Waller (Lib Dem) faced a dramatic vote of no confidence. Orchestrated by a group of seven Conservative councillors led by Lucy Stephenson, the motion challenged Waller’s leadership, specifically citing her handling of the Local Government Reorganisation (LGR) and allegations of "rail-roading" through decisions without sufficient cross-party consultation. Despite the intense pressure and vocal criticism from local MP Alicia Kearns, Gale Waller survived the challenge with a 14-to-8 vote, subsequently pledging to "keep her door open" to bridge the widening partisan divide.

The tremors of instability continued within Oakham Town Council, with another year of poor audit reports . It was then rocked this month by the abrupt resignation of its Deputy Mayor Anna Douthwaite who described another member as a 'horrid little man"

The county paused this year to mourn the loss of two members of local civic life.

• Alf Dewis: The former Mayor of Uppingham and Oakham Town Councillor passed away in March at the age of 80. Alf was remembered in a moving service at Oakham Parish Church. He leaves behind a legacy of dedicated public service that spanned decades.

• Joyce Lucas: A former Mayor of Oakham and a fierce advocate for the town and counties heritage, Joyce’s passing marked the end of an era. Known for her "no-nonsense" approach and her deep love for Oakham and Rutland's history, she was a fixture of local democracy for over 40 years. Serving on both County and Town Councils.

• Paul Buxton

  The town of Oakham also mourns the loss of Councillor Paul Buxton, who passed away at the age of 80. Paul was a man of many hats a committed Town Councillor, a scientist by trade, and the meticulous Treasurer of Oakham in Bloom.

  A true "eternal student," Paul was known for his insatiable curiosity, having spent his later years studying astronomy with the Open University. Beyond the ledger books of Oakham in Bloom, where he helped ensure the town remained one of the most beautiful in the East Midlands, he was a vital support for the Rutland Stroke Club. His colleagues remember him not just for his fiscal diligence, but for a quiet kindness and a relentless desire to learn and contribute to the town he called home since 2000.

  Whether it was debating policy in the council chamber or supporting the floral displays that brighten our roundabouts, Paul’s steady hand and positive spirit left an indelible mark on the community.

Looking Ahead

Rutland may be small, but as 2025 has shown, its people are prepared to fight tooth and nail to ensure that "Much in Little" remains more than just a motto.

Rutland County Council Announces Festive Service Hours

Rutland County Council Announces Festive Service Hours

By Local News Desk Saturday, December 20, 2025

With the holiday season fast approaching, Rutland County Council has released its comprehensive schedule for key services, ensuring residents know where to turn for support between Christmas Eve and the New Year.

While the Council offices will be closed on all public bank holidays, officials have confirmed that digital and phone-based assistance will remain accessible throughout much of the period.

Customer Services and Emergencies

Face-to-face customer contact will pause at 5:00 PM on Wednesday, December 24, resuming on Monday, January 5. However, the Council’s email and online portals will remain active.

For those facing urgent situations, the Council maintains a 24/7 emergency out-of-hours service. Residents can call 01858 464 499 for general emergencies. Specific social services support is available at the following numbers:

• Children’s Social Services: 0116 305 0005

• Adult Social Services: 01572 758 341

Culture and Heritage

All local libraries, the Rutland County Museum, and Oakham Castle will be closed on Bank Holidays. Oakham Castle will offer limited festive hours, including a 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM window on Christmas Eve and a half-day (closing at 1:00 PM) on New Year’s Eve. The Museum will also close at 1:00 PM on December 31.

Transport and Travel

The CallConnect bus service will operate on a Saturday timetable (8:00 AM – 6:00 PM) on Christmas Eve and between December 27 and New Year’s Eve. There will be no service on Christmas Day, Boxing Day, or New Year’s Day. Normal operations resume on Friday, January 2.

Passengers are encouraged to book journeys in advance via the app or by calling 0345 234 3344.

Register Office

The Register Office will be available for appointments on December 22, 23, and 24, and again on December 29, 30, and 31. It will be closed on all Bank Holidays and the intervening weekend. For registration emergencies only, Superintendent Registrar Samantha Corbett can be reached at 07973 855 182.

"The Council would like to take this opportunity to wish everyone in Rutland a very merry Christmas and a Happy New Year."

Rutland Festive Services 2025/26

Key Council Services

Service	Status / Hours
Catmose Offices	No face-to-face contact from Dec 24 (5pm) to Jan 5.
Phone & Email	Open as usual (except Bank Holidays).
General Emergencies	01858 464 499 (24/7 Support).
Children’s Social Care	0116 305 0005 (Emergency Out-of-Hours).
Adult Social Care	01572 758 341 (Emergency Out-of-Hours).

Bin Collections & Recycling

Revised dates for the Christmas week:

• Normal Day: Thurs Dec 25 Revised: Wed Dec 24

• Normal Day: Fri Dec 26 Revised: Sat Dec 27

• Normal Day: Thurs Jan 1 Revised: Fri Jan 2

• Normal Day: Fri Jan 2 Revised: Sat Jan 3

• Recycling Centres: Both sites closed Dec 25, 26, and Jan 1. North Luffenham closes at 3pm on Dec 24 and Dec 31.

Oakham Castle & Museum

Date	Oakham Castle	Rutland County Museum
Wed 24 Dec	10am – 4pm	Normal Hours
Dec 25 & 26	CLOSED	CLOSED
Sat 27 Dec	10am–11:30am & 2:30–4:30pm	Normal Hours
Mon 29 Dec	10am – 4pm	Normal Hours
Wed 31 Dec	10am – 1pm	Closes at 1pm
Jan 1	CLOSED	CLOSED

Transport (CallConnect)

• Christmas Eve: Saturday Timetable (8am – 6pm).

• Dec 25, 26 & Jan 1: No Service.

• Dec 27 – Dec 31: Saturday Timetable (8am – 6pm).

• Jan 2: Normal service resumes.

Rutland Honors Care-Experienced Youth at Gala Awards

Rutland Honors Care-Experienced Youth at Gala Awards

By Rutland Local Democracy Reporter Saturday 20th December 2025

De Montfort University Gospel Choir

The extraordinary resilience and talent of Rutland’s young people took center stage last week at the third annual Celebration of Success, an evening dedicated to honoring children in care and care leavers who have gone above and beyond in their personal and academic lives.

The event, held on December 10 at Oakham School, saw the local community come together to applaud the achievements of a demographic that often faces significant hurdles. With 75 nominations across categories such as Education, Sport, and Kindness, the evening served as a powerful testament to what young people can achieve with the right support.

The ceremony was attended by the county's highest dignitaries, including Lord-Lieutenant of Rutland Dr. Sarah Furness and High Sheriff Richard Chesterfield. The atmosphere was one of joy and high energy, fueled by a soulful performance from the De Montfort University Gospel Choir.

The proceedings were led by Matt Smith of Smash Life and Sally-Ann from the Rutland Virtual School, who shared the stage to present the coveted awards.

One of the most talked-about moments of the night was a surprise showreel featuring messages of encouragement from national sporting icons. Olympic legend Fatima Whitbread MBE, along with England and Leicester City midfielder Harry Winks, sent personal video tributes to the nominees.

Several Leicester Tigers players also joined in, offering words of wisdom on perseverance and hard work messages that resonated deeply with the young audience.

Beyond the trophies, the event highlighted the critical work of the Rutland Virtual School, which acts as a "corporate parent" and educational champion for children in care.

"On behalf of everyone at Rutland County Council, I would like to congratulate all the incredible young people who were nominated," said Cllr Tim Smith, Cabinet Member for Children and Families. "Their achievements and the example they set to all of us are truly remarkable."

Among the evening's special honors was the Pineapple Award. Unique to this ceremony, the winner is chosen by SUSO (Speak Up, Step Out), a group of young people in care who nominate a staff member from Rutland Children’s Services for exceptional support.

The Council used the platform to announce a new initiative for 2026. Building on the success of the awards, the Virtual School will launch a dedicated podcast in January. The project aims to give care-experienced youth a platform to share their lived experiences in their own words, ensuring their voices continue to be heard long after the awards ceremony ends.

Alicia Kearns MP Sends Heartfelt Christmas Message of Gratitude to Rutland and Stamford Residents

Alicia Kearns MP Sends Heartfelt Christmas Message of Gratitude to Rutland and Stamford Residents

In a  message to the people of Rutland and Stamford, Member of Parliament Alicia Kearns has reached out to her constituents to share a message of warmth, gratitude, and personal reflection. As the festive season begins, Alicia emphasised the importance of togetherness, wishing every resident a wonderful holiday filled with the joy of making "beautiful memories" alongside family and cherished loved ones.

Central to her message was a profound note of thanks directed at those who remain on duty throughout the holiday period. Recognising the selflessness of frontline workers, Alicia expressed deep appreciation for the individuals dedicated to serving and protecting the local area, noting that the entire community remains incredibly grateful for their tireless efforts.

The message also carried a significant personal tone, as Alicia touched upon her personal difficulties she has navigated over the past twelve months. Reflecting on what she described as a "tough year," the MP took the opportunity to publicly thank the many constituents who offered her kindness and support. This personal disclosure follows a year in which Alicia has balanced high-profile parliamentary work, including her role as Shadow Safeguarding Minister, with significant life milestones, such as returning from maternity leave earlier this autumn. She noted that the solidarity shown by the community "really meant so much" during these challenging times.

Looking toward the future with optimism, Alicia concluded her message by wishing the residents of Rutland and Stamford a happy and healthy new year. Her words serve as both a seasonal greeting and a reminder of the strong community spirit that defines the region, bridging the gap between public service and personal connection as 2025 draws to a close.

2025 Year in Review: Alicia Kearns MP

Throughout 2025, Alicia Kearns has balanced her new responsibilities as Shadow Minister for the Home Office and Opposition Whip with a robust focus on local priorities. From infrastructure safety to protecting the county’s independence, the year has been marked by several significant milestones for the constituency.

Local Infrastructure and Safety

One of the most notable successes this year was the completion of major safety upgrades on the A1. Following extensive petitioning by Alicia, National Highways completed the closure of 13 central reservation crossings between Little Ponton and Colsterworth in September. This was a direct result of her long-standing "Make the A1 Safer" campaign. Additionally, she successfully secured urgent maintenance and planned upgrades for Stamford Railway Station in November.

Protecting Rutland’s Identity

A central theme of 2025 was the fight to preserve the ceremonial status and independence of Rutland. Alicia led the opposition against government proposals to merge small unitary councils into larger "mega-councils." She hosted large-scale public meetings in Oakham to discuss the English Devolution White Paper. She tabled specific amendments to the English Devolution and Community Empowerment Bill to protect Rutland’s ceremonial county status.

Support for Local Economy

In December, Alicia hosted the Rutland and Stamford Favourite Independent Shop Awards. The 2025 awards saw a record-breaking 1,026 nominations across 19 categories, celebrating the vital role local businesses play as the "engines of the local economy."

Parliamentary Work

In Westminster, Alicia has been a frequent voice on rural and national security issues:

She challenged the government over the approval of large-scale solar farms, such as Mallard Pass, raising concerns about the loss of thousands of acres of agricultural land. She has been active in debates regarding the Violence Against Women and Girls Strategy and has pressured the Home Secretary on firearm licensing reforms. She submitted numerous written questions on topics ranging from quarry safety distances to the impact of National Insurance changes on the local hospitality sector.

Uppingham Mayor Issues Heartfelt Seasonal Message of Peace and Solidarity

Uppingham Mayor Issues Heartfelt Seasonal Message of Peace and Solidarity

Uppingham Mayor David (Dave) Ainslie BEM and Sheena Ainslie

As the festive season reaches its peak, the Mayor of Uppingham, Cllr Dave Ainslie, has issued a poignant message to the community, blending traditional holiday greetings with a compassionate reminder of the challenges many face during the winter months.

In a statement addressed to the town’s residents, Cllr Ainslie acknowledged the duality of the season. While the streets of Uppingham are filled with the glow of festive lights and the buzz of holiday activities, the Mayor was keen to highlight that the period can be a demanding time for many.

"This time of year is all about joy and festivities but for some folk Christmas can also be a time of stress and loneliness," Cllr Ainslie observed. "May I therefore send my personal best wishes to all the residents of Uppingham, hoping that they find peace in this holiday period and also can look forward to a happy New Year."

Rutland Flood Alerts: Stay Informed and Stay Safe

Rutland Flood Alerts: Stay Informed and Stay Safe

Rutland County Council has issued an urgent update regarding several active flood alerts across the county. 

With localised flooding already impacting major roads, residents are encouraged to prepare now and remain vigilant.

A Flood Alert signifies that flooding is possible. Taking small steps now can significantly reduce the risk to your property and ensure your personal safety.

Areas Currently Under Flood Alert

The following areas are currently monitored for rising water levels:

• East and West Glens

• Lower Welland

• River Wreake (Leicestershire)

• Welland Valley

• Witham (South Kesteven)

For live, minute-by-minute updates on these specific alerts, please visit the official GOV.UK Flood Service.

Local Travel Disruptions & Road Closures

Surface water is making driving conditions hazardous in several locations. Rutland County Council has received reports of flooding at the following sites:

Location	Specific Area
Oakham	Junction of Station Road and Kilburn Road
Langham	Melton Road (A606)
Tinwell	Main Street / Stamford Road (A6121)
Stretton	Manor Road

Advice for Motorists: Please avoid these areas if possible and seek alternative routes. Never attempt to drive through floodwater; just 30cm of moving water is enough to float a car.

How to Stay Prepared

Preparation is key to managing flood risks effectively.

• Check the Forecast: Monitor the Met Office Weather Warnings for updates on rainfall intensity.

• Prepare a Kit: Keep a "grab bag" ready with essentials (medication, insurance documents, torch, and batteries) in case you need to leave your home quickly.

• Protect Your Property: If you are in a high-risk area, consider moving valuables to higher floors and ensuring any flood defenses (like sandbags or flood gates) are ready for use.

Reporting Flooding and Getting Help

If you encounter flooding on the roads or need to report an issue to the council, use the following resources:

• General Advice & Reporting: rutland.gov.uk/flooding

• Latest Local Updates: rutland.gov.uk/latest-flooding-information-advice

Emergency Note: In the event of an immediate danger to life, always call 999.

Stay safe, look out for vulnerable neighbors, and help keep Rutland moving by reporting issues as soon as they arise.

A New Year’s Resolution for Peace of Mind the Lord-Lieutenant of Rutland, Dr. Sarah Furness

A New Year’s Resolution for Peace of Mind the Lord-Lieutenant of Rutland, Dr. Sarah Furness

A New Yea’s Resolution for Peace of Mind

As 2026 approaches, the Lord-Lieutenant of Rutland, Dr. Sarah Furness, is issuing a unique challenge to the community: make a New Year’s resolution that provides lasting peace of mind for yourself and your loved ones.

As the patron of Dying Matters Rutland (DMR), Dr. Furness is encouraging residents to take practical steps toward end-of-life planning. While often uncomfortable, addressing these "inevitable" realities such as making a will or documenting healthcare preferences—can prevent families from being left overwhelmed and forced to guess a loved one's wishes during a crisis. “There is a lot to think about, even if doing so is not comfortable," says Dr. Furness. "Would you prefer life to be prolonged at all costs or is comfort and quality of life most important to you? Do those close to you know your wishes or will they have to guess?”.  While legal documents like wills are a primary focus, Dr. Furness highlights that smaller details are equally vital:

• Specifying the type of funeral you would like.

• Appointing who should manage your affairs when you need support.

• Managing digital legacies, including those easily forgotten passwords.

"Dead Easy" Event Coming in May 2026

To help residents keep this resolution, DMR is organising a special event titled “Dead Easy: A Guide to the Inevitable” in May 2026. The event is designed to transform end-of-life preparation into something accessible and even comforting.

Attendees will have access to a panel of experts, including lawyers, funeral directors, and end-of-life counsellors, to help clarify procedures and provide trusted expertise. Dr. Hilary Fox, Chair of DMR, emphasises that the goal is to create a "safe, open space" to remove the stigma surrounding death and dying.

About Dying Matters Rutland

Dying Matters in Leicester, Leicestershire & Rutland serves as a central hub for end-of-life information. By working with partners such as the Bereavement Help Point and The Loss Project, the charity strives to improve joined-up care and alleviate the administrative burdens families face during bereavement.

www.dyingmattersleicestershireandrutland.com/

For more information or to prepare for the "Dead Easy" challenge, residents can visit the DMR resources or contact Sandra McCune at drsandramccune@gmail.com.