“Ready and Raring for 2026”: Alicia Kearns MP Reflects on Year of Local Battles and Personal Health Recovery

“Ready and Raring for 2026”: Alicia Kearns MP Reflects on Year of Local Battles and Personal Health Recovery

In an end-of-year report to her constituents, Alicia Kearns MP has laid out a defiant roadmap for 2026, following a year defined by high-stakes local campaigns and a significant personal health battle.

The MP for Rutland and Stamford revealed that while 2025 saw major legislative victories and the birth of her daughter, it was also marked by a "frustrating" period of ill health. Following the birth, Alicia Kearns was diagnosed with a pulmonary embolism and liver complications. However, after being signed off by doctors three weeks ago, she declared herself "ready and raring" for the new year.

The past year was dominated by the fight to "Save Rutland" following Government proposals to abolish small unitary councils. Alicia Kearns presented a petition to Parliament with over 7,000 signatures and, despite the Government recently rejecting her amendment to protect Rutland’s ceremonial county status, she vowed the fight is not over.

"We now have to hope that another bill will come forward," Kearns stated. "I will continue to do all I can to make it clear that we are Rutlanders, and intend to stay as such."

Agriculture and food security remained at the forefront of the MP’s agenda. Highlights from 2025 included:

• Infrastructure Battles: Continued opposition to the Mallard Pass Solar Plant and National Grid’s 60km transmission line.

• Rural Crime: Co-laying amendments to toughen sentencing for the theft of high-value farming equipment.

• Fair Funding: Criticizing new funding allocations that see rural councils like Harborough facing real-terms cuts while urban centers receive significant increases.

Despite national challenges, several local projects reached fruition. The new £21 million Day Treatment Unit at Stamford and Rutland Hospital finally opened its doors, treating 140 people in its first week alone.

Improvements were also noted on the A1, with 13 central reservation crossings closed to improve safety, and the launch of a new on-demand bus service in Rutland. However, there was a blow for rail commuters; the MP confirmed that the pause in the Midlands Main Line electrification has effectively ended hopes for a trialed Sunday morning service between Leicester and Peterborough.

Alicia Kearns is wasting no time in the New Year, announcing her first Jobs Fair will take place on Friday, 23rd January 2026, at the Stamford Arts Centre (10am–2pm).

The event will showcase local opportunities ranging from engineering on the A1 corridor to social care and the fire service. "You’ll be amazed by the varied opportunities right here on our doorstep," she said.

A Year in Numbers:

• 38,000: Total complex casework issues handled since 2019.

• 12,400: Emails from residents regarding policy and advice in 2025.

• 1,026: Nominations for the Independent Shop Awards (winners to be announced Jan 2026).

• 40: Villages or streets that received broadband and mobile signal upgrades.

"My greatest privilege remains being able to support local families at what is often the most difficult time in your lives," Kearns concluded. "Thank you for all your support this year... it’s by no means been the easiest."

Festive Update, A Message from Rutland & Melton Inspector Darren Richardson

Festive Update, A Message from Rutland & Melton Inspector Darren Richardson

Festive Update, A Message from Rutland & Melton Inspector Darren Richardson

As the holiday season reaches its peak, the Melton and Rutland Neighborhood Policing Area (NPA) has issued a firm but festive update to the community. Following a final pre-Christmas briefing with a certain "very important person" from the North Pole, Inspector Darren Richardson has confirmed a clear division of labor for the coming days.

The agreement is simple, while Santa’s team focuses on the nice, Team Melton & Rutland will be staying busy with the naughty.

The local policing team has been working around the clock to ensure the festive period remains peaceful for residents. Recent successes include:

• A Failed Game of Hide and Seek: A prolific offender, recently released from prison, attempted to evade officers in a "festive game of hide and seek." The police won. He has been returned to prison and is expected to remain behind bars until November 2026.

• Drug Enforcement: This week officers arrested an adult male on suspicion of involvement in the supply of Class A drugs. He currently remains under investigation as part of the force's commitment to tackling substance-related crime.

• A Year of Action: Throughout 2025, Team Melton & Rutland has made a total of 781 arrests, including 229 individuals suspected of domestic abuse.

The Inspector highlighted two critical areas of focus for the remainder of the holiday period:

1. Road Safety: Targeting drink and drug-drivers remains a top priority. Patrols will continue at high intensity throughout the Christmas and New Year period to keep the roads safe for families.

2. Domestic Abuse Support: While Christmas is a time of joy for many, the police acknowledge it can be a period of increased tension and risk in some households. Inspector Richardson is urging anyone affected by domestic abuse to reach out, emphasising that "you are not alone."

How to Get Help

If you are in danger or need to report a crime, please use the following channels:

Service Type	Contact Method
Emergency	Call 999
Non-Emergency	Call 101 or report online via the Leicestershire Police website
Confidential Support	Freeva Helpline: 0808 80 200 28 (Freephone, does not show on bills)

"The message is clear: if you’re naughty, we will deal with you. Let’s keep Melton & Rutland safe together. Have a wonderful Christmas, stay safe, and enjoy."

Inspector Darren Richardson

Rutland’s Independence in the Balance, Council Leader’s Christmas Message, Reflection on a Year of Turmoil

Rutland’s Independence in the Balance, Council Leader’s Christmas Message, Reflection on a Year of Turmoil

By Local Democracy Reporter

As the Christmas lights shine across Oakham and Uppingham the two town within our county, the Leader of Rutland County Council, Councillor Gale Waller, has issued a message of peace and kindness to residents. However, behind the seasonal warmth lies the shadow of a year defined by political upheaval and a growing fear that England’s smallest county is fighting a losing battle for its independence.

In her simple Christmas message, Cllr Waller, who represents the Normanton Ward, extended her "best wishes" to every household, calling for a "joyous New Year filled with kindness." Yet for many in the county, the spirit of "peace" has been hard to find in 2025.

The defining struggle of Cllr Gale Waller’s year has been the looming specter of Local Government Reorganisation (LGR). Under mounting pressure from central government to create larger, "more efficient" unitary authorities of at least 500,000 residents, Rutland with its population of roughly 41,000 finds itself at a crossroads.

For much of the year, the Council has been embroiled in a complex tug-of-war between three competing visions for the future:

A "North, City, South" model that would see Rutland join a new North Leicestershire authority.

A Greater Leicestershire merger that could see the county absorbed into a massive single unitary body.

A move toward Lincolnshire, an option preferred by many residents in recent surveys but complicated by administrative boundaries.

In November, the Cabinet officially endorsed the "North, City, South" proposal as the most viable path to financial sustainability. For those who remember Rutland’s hard-won fight to regain independence from Leicestershire in 1997, the current trajectory feels like a painful reversal of history.

The journey has not been smooth for the Leader. Cllr Gale Waller has faced blistering criticism from Rutland and Stamford MP Alicia Kearns who accused the leadership of "railroading" residents into a single option and failing to provide a democratic choice.

The tension peaked in August when Cllr Gale Waller survived a vote of no confidence tabled by Conservative councillors. While she defeated the motion, the debate highlighted deep-seated anxieties over "democratic deficits" and the potential dilution of Rutland’s unique voice in a larger regional machine.

Despite the political headwinds, Cllr Gale Waller has remained steadfast, pointing to significant "hard-won" achievements during her tenure. In her reflections, she highlighted:

Moving the council away from a dangerous reliance on reserves to balance the books.

The successful rollout of a new electric minibus service for the Oakham Hopper and rural routes.

Maintaining "excellent" ratings for both adult and children’s care services despite national funding crises.

The Local Plan, Navigating the complex requirements of the National Planning Policy Framework to protect the county from predatory development.

In her message to the people of Rutland, Cllr Gale Waller’s focus remains on the community she serves.

"The past few years have been some of the most difficult we have ever experienced in local government," she remarked earlier this year. "We don’t know what the future holds... all we can do is try to influence this process to secure the best possible future for Rutland."

As 2026 approaches a year that is expected to bring a final government decision on the county's fate the Leader’s call for "kindness" may be more than just a seasonal sentiment; it may be the very quality Rutland needs to stay united as it faces its greatest challenge in a generation.

Traditions and Tensions, The Cottesmore Hunt Boxing Day Meet at Exton Hall

Traditions and Tensions, The Cottesmore Hunt Boxing Day Meet at Exton Hall

The Cottesmore Hunt is set to uphold its long-standing festive tradition by hosting its annual Boxing Day Meet at the historic Exton Hall in Rutland on Friday, December 26, 2025.

Starting at 11:00 am, the event offers members of the public an opportunity to meet the hounds and riders in the picturesque grounds of the hall. For many in the rural community, the meet remains a staple of the holiday season, characterised by stirrup cups and the spectacle of the pack gathering before heading out for the day's activities.

Beyond the pageantry, the event serves as a significant fundraiser for For Rutland. This local charity raises vital funds to pay for specialist advisers at Citizens Advice Rutland. These advisers provide free, confidential, and independent non-medical advice to people of all ages living with long-term health conditions across the county.

The Boxing Day meet is a cornerstone of the charity's calendar, typically raising between £1,200 and £1,500 annually through collections. For those seeking further details on the event or how to contribute, the hunt has invited inquiries via Clare Bell at 07854 587366.

The choice of Exton Hall as a venue follows years of logistical and political shifts. The Cottesmore Hunt has not held its annual meet in Oakham for several years. This change occurred after Oakham Town Council, followed by Rutland County Council, refused the hunt permission to use public land for the gathering, reflecting a growing national debate over the presence of hunts in town centers.
The legal framework for hunting changed permanently with the Hunting Act 2004, which came into force in February 2005. The Act prohibited the hunting of wild mammals with dogs, leading hunts across the UK to adopt "trail hunting"—following an artificial scent—as a legal alternative.

In the years following the ban, the Cottesmore Hunt has frequently been in the spotlight regarding legal and criminal matters:

• Animal Welfare Cases: In 2021, a former member, Sarah Moulds, was filmed striking a horse. While she was later acquitted of animal cruelty charges in 2023, the incident drew international condemnation.

• Public Order & Assault: In early 2024, several "hunt stewards" associated with the Cottesmore were arrested following allegations of violence against protesters. Recent convictions include two men charged with assault following an opening meet at Knossington in October 2024.

• Road Safety & Accidents: The hunt has also faced scrutiny over incidents involving hounds on public roads, including a 2018 accident where ten hounds were killed.

The hunt remains a primary target for the Northants Hunt Saboteurs, who are a frequent presence at Cottesmore events. A common allegation from the group—and one echoed by many anti-hunt organizations—is that the Cottesmore "don't actually lay a trail." Protesters often claim that "trail hunting" is merely a "smokescreen" used to continue illegal fox hunting under the guise of a legal activity.

The tradition of the Boxing Day meet faces its most significant threat yet. The UK Government recently announced an Animal Welfare Strategy (published in December 2025) which includes plans to ban trail hunting entirely in England and Wales.

Ministers have argued that the practice has been used to bypass the original 2004 ban. If this legislation passes, the 2025 Boxing Day meet at Exton Hall could be among the last of its kind, marking a definitive end to a centuries-old chapter of British rural life.

A Personal Invitation from Oakham Baptist Church: Don't Be Alone This Christmas, Service followed by Christmas Day Lunch

A Personal Invitation from Oakham Baptist Church: Don't Be Alone This Christmas, Service followed by Christmas Day Lunch

A Personal Invitation from Oakham Baptist Church: Don't Be Alone This Christmas

By Rev. Tom Bowring

Christmas is a time for family and celebration, but for many in our wonderful Rutland community, it can also be one of the quietest and loneliest times of the year.

At Oakham Baptist Church, we believe that the heart of the Christmas message is community. The story of the incarnation Emmanuel, "God with us" is a reminder that we aren't created to be alone. This year, I want to personally invite you to join our church family as we celebrate together.

Whether you are a regular churchgoer or haven't stepped through our doors in years, you are welcome here.

11:00 AM: Family Christmas Service (A joyful celebration for all ages)

12:00 PM: Community Christmas Dinner

Every year, we host a Christmas meal for anyone in our community who might otherwise be isolated. This year, we already have over 60 people booked in the most who have ever gathered together at the church for this meal.

While that number shows me that many are feeling the "pinch" of loneliness right now, it also shows me there is a deep desire for connection. We still have room for a few more. If you are facing the prospect of a lonely Christmas, please don't be. Get in touch, come along, and share the day with us.

The "epidemic of loneliness" is causing real health challenges in our towns. We can fight it together by creating what is so often missing in modern society, friendship and companionship.

The dinner is free, though we do ask that you book in advance so we can make sure there is a seat and a warm meal waiting for you.

Our doors don't close on Boxing Day. If you are looking for community in the New Year, please remember we host a café every Friday from 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM. Let your Christmas and your 2026 be defined by community and love.

Every blessing to you all through this Christmas time. Tom

How to Book or Get in Touch:

Phone: 01572 724990  

Address: Melton Road, Oakham, Rutland, LE15 6AY

Web: oakhambaptist.org.uk

A Message of Gratitude and Pride, Lord-Lieutenant Dr. Sarah Furness Shares Christmas Wishes with Rutland

A Message of Gratitude and Pride, Lord-Lieutenant Dr. Sarah Furness Shares Christmas Wishes with Rutland

By Local News Reporter December 22, 2025

Lord-Lieutenant Dr. Sarah Furness 

Welcoming Prince Edward, Duke of Edinburgh

Image courtesy of Clarke PR and Media.

The Lord-Lieutenant of Rutland, Dr. Sarah Furness, has reached out to the community to share a heartfelt Christmas message, reflecting on the unique spirit that defines the UK’s smallest county.

Looking ahead to the new year, Dr. Furness offered her "warmest wishes for a happy and peaceful 2026" to all residents, while taking a moment to celebrate the people who make Rutland such a distinctive place to live.

Central to the Lord-Lieutenant’s message was a profound sense of gratitude for Rutland’s thriving culture of volunteerism. Dr. Furness highlighted the "altruism" of the many individuals who give their time across the county.

"I think we are a happy place to live, and a county that meets needs, in large part because of this altruism," Dr. Sarah Furness noted, praising those who volunteer in a wide variety of ways throughout the year.

While many are preparing to sit down for Christmas dinner, Dr. Furness reminded residents of those who remain on duty. She extended a special thank you to the "blue light" services, the Air Ambulance, and the Rutland First Responders. These teams, she noted, will be particularly busy during the festive period while the rest of the county enjoys the holiday.

The message also turned to Rutland’s achievements in education and the arts. Dr. Sarah Furness expressed immense pride in the county’s "outstanding" primary and secondary schools, spanning both the state and private sectors. She sent a personal wish to teachers and support staff for a "well-deserved rest" after a busy autumn term.

Music, too, played a key role in the Lord-Lieutenant’s seasonal reflections. Having attended numerous carol services and concerts recently, she remarked on the "outstanding music" that enriches Rutland’s cultural life.

In a closing note on the county's future, Dr. Sarah Furness touched upon the importance of Rutland’s heritage.

"We have so much to be proud of in our small county," she said. "I hope that we retain our ceremonial status and never lose our strong sense of identity."

As Rutland prepares to ring in 2026, the Lord-Lieutenant’s message serves as a timely reminder of the community strength and local pride that continue to punch well above the county's weight.

"I send my warmest wishes for a happy and peaceful 2026. I am so grateful to the many people who volunteer in such a wide variety of ways throughout Rutland. I think we are a happy place to live, and a county that meets needs, in large part because of this altruism.

I also thank all the ‘blue light’ services, Air Ambulance and the Rutland First Responders who will be particularly busy at this festive time when the rest of us are enjoying ourselves.

In Rutland we should be especially proud of our schools. We have outstanding primary and secondary schools in both the state and private sectors. I hope all teachers and support staff are having a well deserved rest!

I have enjoyed so many carol services and concerts recently and think that we are lucky to enjoy outstanding music in county.

We have so much to be proud of in our small county. I hope that we retain our ceremonial status and never lose our strong sense of identity".

Happy 2026.

Sarah Furness Lord-Lieutenant

St Joseph’s in Oakham, St Mary & St Augustine in Stamford, and the historic Exton Chapel Christmas 2025

St Joseph’s in Oakham, St Mary & St Augustine in Stamford, and the historic Exton Chapel Christmas 2025

St Thomas of Canterbury, Exton

The local Catholic communities are preparing to enter the heart of the liturgical year. For the parishes of St Joseph’s in Oakham, St Mary & St Augustine in Stamford, and the historic Exton Chapel, Christmastide 2025 offers a sequence of sacred liturgies that bridge centuries of tradition with the vibrant life of today’s faithful.

The celebrations this year take place across three distinct and beautiful settings. In Oakham, St Joseph’s stands as a modern beacon of community, known for its warm welcome and active parish life.

Just a few miles away, St Mary & St Augustine in Stamford often called St Augustine’s offers a more Victorian backdrop. Designed by the renowned architect George Goldie and opened in 1865, its Collyweston stone altar and hand-carved Stations of the Cross (donated by American soldiers after WWII) provide a solemn atmosphere for the Nativity.

Perhaps most atmospheric is the Chapel of St Thomas of Canterbury at Exton Park. A rare example of a fully functioning private Catholic chapel, it is attached to the historic Exton Hall and serves as one of only two Catholic places of worship in Rutland, comfortably seating 120 people within its exquisite, intimate interior.

Schedule of Services: Christmastide 2025

Whether you are seeking the quiet reflection of a weekday Mass or the choral joy of Midnight Mass, the following schedule outlines the path to the Nativity:

The Final Preparation

• Monday, 22nd December

  • 10:00 am: Holy Mass – St Joseph’s, Oakham

• Tuesday, 23rd December

  • 10:00 am: Holy Mass – St Mary & St Augustine, Stamford

Christmas Eve: The Vigil of the Nativity

• Wednesday, 24th December

  • 5:45 pm: Carols begin – St Joseph’s, Oakham

  • 6:00 pm: Vigil Mass – St Joseph’s, Oakham

  • 6:00 pm: Vigil Mass – St Mary & St Augustine, Stamford

  • 11:30 pm: Office of Readings followed by Midnight Mass (Venue to be confirmed via parish newsletter, typically held at the main parish churches).

Christmas Day: The Nativity of Our Lord

• Thursday, 25th December

  • 9:00 am: Dawn Mass of Christmas – St Mary & St Augustine, Stamford

  • 9:00 am: Dawn Mass of Christmas – St Thomas of Canterbury, Exton

  • 10:30 am: Day Mass of Christmas – St Joseph’s, Oakham

  • 11:00 am: Day Mass of Christmas – St Mary & St Augustine, Stamford

For those visiting for the first time, these services represent more than just a schedule; they are an invitation. At St Joseph’s, the 10:30 am Day Mass is often a family-focused affair, reflecting the parish’s reputation for being "living and vibrant" with many young children and a welcoming "sidesman" at the door.

In Stamford, the 6:00 pm Vigil and the 9:00 am Dawn Mass allow worshippers to experience the "imposing spectacle" of the sanctuary, which has been a center of Catholic life since the 19th-century restoration of the hierarchy.

The Exton Chapel 9:00 am Dawn Mass offers a unique opportunity to celebrate the Nativity in a setting of profound peace, tucked away within the Exton Park estate a true "hidden gem" of Rutland’s heritage.

Note to Parishioners: As times can occasionally shift due to local requirements, please check the latest parish newsletters or the official Catholic Stamford and St Joseph’s Oakham websites for any last-minute updates.

Celebrate Christmas at St Peter and St Paul, Uppingham

Celebrate Christmas at St Peter and St Paul, Uppingham

As the winter air settles over the historic market town of Uppingham, the bells of St Peter and St Paul ring out a warm invitation to the community. This Christmas, the parish church offers a variety of services designed to capture the wonder, tradition, and joy of the season.

Whether you are looking for a lively celebration for the little ones or a moment of quiet, candlelit reflection, there is a place for you in the heart of our town.

The transition from Advent to Christmas begins with two distinct services:

• 4:00 pm – Family Nativity Service Perfect for families and the young at heart, this service brings the Christmas story to life. Expect a relaxed atmosphere filled with well-loved carols and a retelling of the birth of Jesus that children will cherish.

• 11:00 pm – Christmas Midnight Mass Experience the profound beauty of the "first Mass of Christmas." As the world hushes, we gather in the candlelit church to celebrate the incarnation. With traditional liturgy and powerful hymns, this is a moving way to usher in Christmas Day.

The celebrations continue on December 25th with two opportunities to worship, catering to different traditions of the Anglican faith:

• 8:00 am – BCP Holy Communion For those who find peace in the timeless language of the Book of Common Prayer, this early morning service offers a quiet, contemplative start to the day. It is a moment of stillness and grace before the festivities begin at home

• 10:00 am – Choral Christmas Eucharist The centerpiece of our Christmas morning. This service is a grand celebration featuring the church’s rich musical tradition. With the choir leading us in festive praise, we come together as a full community to celebrate the birth of Christ with word, song, and sacrament.

The Church of St Peter and St Paul stands as a beacon of hope and community. They look forward to welcoming neighbours and visitors alike to share in the "Good News" this Christmas.

Location: Market Place, Uppingham, Rutland. All are welcome, regardless of whether you are a regular congregant or visiting for the first time.

Christmas Services 2025 at Oakham and Langham

Christmas Services 2025 at Oakham and Langham

As the festive season approaches, the historic churches of All Saints Oakham and St Peter & St Paul Langham have invited the local community to join in a series of traditional services to celebrate the birth of Christ.

From the Christmas Eve "Crib Services" to the solemnity of Midnight Mass.

The celebrations begin on Tuesday, December 24th, with a particular focus on families and children. The Crib Services are a beloved local tradition, bringing the Nativity story to life in a relaxed and joyful atmosphere.

• 3:00 pm – All Saints Church, Oakham: A family-friendly Crib Service, perfect for those with young children looking to start their celebrations early.

• 4:30 pm – St Peter & St Paul, Langham: A similar service of carols and storytelling will take place in the heart of Langham village.

As the night falls, the atmosphere shifts toward the contemplative. At 11:00 pm, All Saints Oakham will host the Christmas Communion (traditionally known as Midnight Mass). This candlelight service offers a unique opportunity to welcome Christmas morning with prayer, traditional hymns, and the first Eucharist of the festival.

On Wednesday, December 25th, the celebrations continue with a morning of gratitude and community spirit.

• 10:00 am  All Saints Church, Oakham, A festive service of Holy Communion will be held to celebrate Christmas Day. This service is open to all, providing a spiritual cornerstone for the day's festivities before families head home for their holiday meals.

"These services are the heartbeat of our community at Christmas," said a parish spokesperson. "Whether you are a regular worshiper or haven't stepped inside a church in years, you are most welcome to find a seat and share in the joy of the season."

Date	Time	Location	Service Type
Dec 24	3:00 pm	All Saints, Oakham	Crib Service
Dec 24	4:30 pm	St Peter & St Paul, Langham	Crib Service
Dec 24	11:00 pm	All Saints, Oakham	Christmas Communion
Dec 25	10:00 am	All Saints, Oakham	Holy Communion

Community to gather for Joyful Christmas Morning Celebration at Oakham Methodist Church

Community to gather for Joyful Christmas Morning Celebration at Oakham Methodist Church

As the bells of Rutland ring out this December 25th, the congregation of Oakham Methodist Church on Northgate prepares to welcome the community for its annual Christmas Day service.

The service, which begins at 10:30 am, offers a moment of reflection and celebration amidst the excitement of the day. This year’s worship will be led by the Rev. Barry Gent and Rachael Thompson, promising a morning filled with traditional carols, festive readings, and a shared sense of gratitude.

Located in the heart of Oakham, the church has long been a focal point for Christmas gatherings. The church emphasise that the service is open to everyone whether you are a regular member of the congregation, visiting family in Rutland for the holidays, or simply looking for a peaceful space to celebrate the birth of Christ.

"Christmas morning is a special time for us to come together as a church family," says a local church goer. "The atmosphere is always one of warmth and joy, and having both Rev. Gent and Rachael Thompson leading us makes it a truly collaborative celebration."

For those planning to attend, here are the essential details:

Location: Oakham Methodist Church, Northgate, Oakham, Rutland.

Date: Wednesday, December 25th.

Time: 10:30 am.

Led by: Rev. Barry Gent and Rachael Thompson.

As families across Oakham unwrap gifts and prepare their Christmas dinners, the Northgate service remains a cherished tradition for those wishing to keep the spiritual heart of the season at the forefront of their celebrations.

Attendees are encouraged to arrive a few minutes early to secure seating and enjoy the festive atmosphere.

Rutland Council Chairman of Rutland County Council, Councillor Andrew Brown JP, Issues Seasonal Greeting to Residents

Rutland Council Chairman of Rutland County Council, Councillor Andrew Brown JP, Issues Seasonal Greeting to Residents

Rutland Council Chairman Issues Seasonal Greeting to Residents

As the festive season begins, the Chairman of Rutland County Council, Councillor Andrew Brown JP, has issued a Christmas and New Year message to the residents of the county, calling for both celebration and compassion.

Writing on behalf of the council’s elected members, officers, and staff, Cllr Andrew Brown extended warm wishes for the holidays while highlighting the importance of community spirit as the county moves toward 2026.

In his message, Cllr Andrew Brown emphasised the value of spending quality time with those closest to us. However, he also urged residents to keep those facing hardships in their thoughts during the winter period.

"While enjoying time with our families and loved ones, let us not forget those less fortunate than ourselves," Cllr Anbdrew Brown stated.

The Chairman used the message to reaffirm the Council’s primary mission for the coming year. He pledged that Rutland County Council remains dedicated to maintaining high standards of support for its most at-risk residents.

"We look forward to 2026 by continuing to make sure our most vulnerable residents are given the best possible care and opportunities," he added.

Cllr Andrew Brown JP serves as the Ward Member for a wide range of rural communities, including Caldecott, Lyddington, Seaton, Glaston, Stoke Dry, Thorpe by Water, and Bisbrooke. As a member of the RCC Independent Group, his role as Chairman involves representing the council at civic events and presiding over full council meetings.

The message concludes with a simple message: "May I wish you all a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year."