A Toast to the Trees, The Stamford Wassail Returns for 2026

A Toast to the Trees, The Stamford Wassail Returns for 2026

If you find yourself in Stamford this Saturday, don’t be alarmed if you hear the rhythmic clanging of pots and pans echoing through the crisp winter air. It isn’t a kitchen mishap it’s the Stamford Wassail, a vibrant revival of an ancient English tradition designed to wake up the apple trees and ensure a bountiful harvest for the year ahead.

Taking place on Saturday, 3 January 2026, this community celebration merges folklore, creativity, and a bit of good-natured noise.

The Schedule: From Lanterns to Orchards

The festivities are split into three distinct parts, making it a perfect afternoon for families and folklore enthusiasts alike.

• 2:30 PM | Lantern Making Workshop: Kick things off at Christ Church on Green Lane. Hosted in partnership with Art Pop Up, this workshop allows participants to craft their own light for the evening procession.

  • Note: Booking via Eventbrite is required for the workshop.   (SOLD OUT)

• 4:00 PM | Lantern Procession: As the twilight deepens, the community will gather to carry their handmade lanterns in a glowing parade toward the orchard.

• 4:30 PM | The Wassail: The main event takes place at the Stamford Community Orchard (located at the bottom of Christ Church Close). This is where the "noise" begins!

What Exactly is a "Wassail"?

The word "Wassail" comes from the Anglo-Saxon phrase 'waes hael', meaning "be well." Historically, cider-producing communities would gather in orchards during the depths of winter to ward off bad spirits and "serenade" the trees.

During the Stamford event, you can expect:

• Singing to the Trees: Traditional folk songs to encourage the spirits of the orchard.

• The Incantation: A rhythmic "noise-making" session to ensure the trees are well-rested and ready for spring.

• Community Spirit: A gathering organised by the Stamford Community Orchard Group, Art Pop Up, and South Kesteven District Council.

Your Wassail Checklist

To participate fully in this "noisy old English custom," you’ll need to come prepared. The organizers suggest bringing:

Item	Purpose
Old Saucepan & Spoon	To create the necessary racket to "wake" the trees.
Whistles & Horns	The louder, the better!
Torches/Flashlights	To navigate the orchard as evening falls.
Warm Clothing	It’s January in Lincolnshire layer up!
Ribbons	To decorate your person or even the branches of the trees.

Event Details at a Glance

• Date: Saturday, 3 January 2026

• Time: 14:30 – 17:30

• Location: Stamford Community Orchard, PE9 1HS (Starting at Christ Church Close)

• Cost: Check Eventbrite for workshop booking; the Wassail itself is a community-led gathering.

Whether you're there for the history, the art, or simply the chance to bang a wooden spoon against a pot in public, the Stamford Wassail promises a magical, rowdy start to the New Year.

Local Photographer Jamie Hassall Brings the Art of the Image to Rutland

Local Photographer Jamie Hassall Brings the Art of the Image to Rutland

Normanton Church at Rutland Water. Prints available to purchase as gifts, 

wedding presents, Contact Jamie Hassall for prices.

Local Photographer Jamie Hassall Brings the Art of the Image to Rutland

For many, picking up a camera is about documenting a moment. But for local professional photographer Jamie Hassall, it’s about something much deeper. Quoting the legendary Ansel Adams, Jamie believes that "You don’t take a photograph, you make it."

It is this philosophy of intentionality and artistry that sits at the heart of Rutland Photography Workshops, Jamie’s local venture dedicated to helping aspiring photographers turn snapshots into wallworthy masterpieces.

With over 15 years of experience behind the lens, Jamie has transitioned from capturing the world’s beauty to teaching others how to see it. His passion for the craft is infectious, and he has built a reputation for a teaching style that balances technical precision with creative flair.

"I thoroughly enjoy passing on my passion, enthusiasm, and knowledge," Jamie says. "Whether someone has just unboxed their very first camera or they are a seasoned hobbyist looking to refine their eye, there is always something new to learn about the light and the land."

While Jamie is a fixture in the UK photography scene specialising in British wildlife and sweeping landscapes his workshops often take students far beyond the rolling hills of the East Midlands.

Rutland Photography Workshops offers a diverse range of experiences, including, Focusing on local wildlife and iconic British landscapes.

1-to-1 Tuition, Personalised sessions tailored to an individual's specific skill level and goals.

Bespoke trips to Finland and Iceland, designed for those dreaming of capturing the ethereal dance of the Aurora Borealis.

The beauty of Jamie’s approach is its inclusivity. You don't need a bag full of expensive gear to get started. The workshops are designed to accommodate all skill ranges, focusing on the fundamental principles of composition, lighting, and "making" the image.

For those looking to take their hobby to the next level, Jamie invites you to explore the current schedule and join a community of like-minded creatives.

"The goal is simple," Jamie explains. "I want people to walk away with a photo they are proud to hang on their wall."

Are you ready to stop taking photos and start making them? 

To view upcoming workshop dates or to book a private 1-to-1 session, visit Rutland Photography Workshops online. 

www.rutlandphotographyworkshops.co.uk/workshops

For specific queries, Jamie encourages locals to get in touch directly to discuss their photographic journey.

Contact: Jamie Hassall, Founder & Owner

Tel: 01572 770 304   Mob: 07793 132 789

RutlandPhotographyWorkshops@yahoo.com

Website: www.rutlandphotographyworkshops.co.uk

www.facebook.com/rutlandphotographyworkshops

Drug Arrest in Oakham, Leicester Man Charged After Saturday Stop

Drug Arrest in Oakham, Leicester Man Charged After Saturday Stop

A routine patrol by local officers led to a significant drug arrest in Oakham this past Saturday evening, as Rutland police continue their crackdown on Class A substances heading into the new year.

Officers patrolling the town grew suspicious of a vehicle’s activity and performed a proactive stop to speak with the driver. Following a roadside interaction, both the individual and the vehicle were searched under police powers.

The search resulted in the discovery of suspected illicit substances, leading to the immediate arrest of the driver on suspicion of drug dealing.

Leicestershire Police have confirmed that A Godolja, 28, of Abbey Park Road, Leicester, has since been charged with possession with intent to supply a Class A drug (cocaine).

The arrest is being hailed by local leadership as a successful conclusion to the year's enforcement efforts. Inspector Darren Richardson, Commander for Melton and Rutland, praised the instincts of his team.

"Local officers spotted a vehicle they suspected to be 'up to no good' and decided to stop the vehicle and have a chat with the driver," Inspector Richardson said. "A great result to end 2025, a year in which we have tirelessly targeted those causing the most harm to our communities."

Godolja has been remanded in custody and is scheduled to appear at Leicester Crown Court on Tuesday, 27 January 2026.

As the legal proceedings are now active, authorities have reminded the public to refrain from speculating about the details of the case on social media to avoid prejudice to the trial.

Rutland police are urging residents to remain vigilant and continue reporting suspicious activity. Information regarding drug dealing can be reported by:

Calling 101 or visiting the Leicestershire Police website. 

https://www.leics.police.uk/ro/report/ocr/af/how-to-report-a-crime/

Contacting Crimestoppers 100% anonymously at 0800 555 111.

Happy New Year 2026 from Oakham and Rutland News! Swimming New Years Day Rutland Water, Free Hot Chocolate. ​#Oakham #Rutland #NewYear2026 #RutlandNews #OakhamNews #DiscoverRutland #NewYearsDay

Happy New Year 2026 from Oakham and Rutland News! Swimming New Years Day Rutland Water, Free Hot Chocolate.

​As the clock strikes midnight and we welcome 2026, we want to wish our incredible community across Oakham, Uppingham, and all our beautiful Rutland villages a very Happy New Year! 

​2025 was quite a year for our county being named one of the best places to live by the Sunday Times.

We’ve faced challenges together, celebrated local heroes in the New Year's Honours, and continued to prove why Rutland is the heart of the country.

​Starting 2026 with a Splash?

​If you're looking to shake off the celebrations, don't forget the annual New Year's Day Dip at Rutland Water! 

​Where: Meeting at Rutland Harbour Café.

​When: 11:00 AM today (January 1st).

​Reward: Hot chocolate and soup await those brave enough to face the water!

​A Big Thank You

​Thank you for trusting us to be your source for local news, events, and stories over the past year. 

Whether you're nursing a hangover with a walk around Normanton Church or planning your resolutions for a "New Year, New Job," we’ll be here to keep you updated every step of the way.

​What are your goals for 2026? 

Let us know in the comments below! 

​Stay safe, look out for your neighbours, and let’s make 2026 Rutland’s best year yet!

​#Oakham #Rutland #NewYear2026 #RutlandNews #OakhamNews #DiscoverRutland #NewYearsDay

Former Leicestershire, Leicester and Rutland Chief Constable Rob Nixon Honoured with CBE in King’s New Year List

Former Leicestershire, Leicester and Rutland Chief Constable Rob Nixon Honoured with CBE in King’s New Year List

Chief Constable Rob Nix at the opening of 

Oakham's new police station. 23rd March 2023.

One of the region’s most respected former public servants has been awarded a Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE) in His Majesty the King’s New Year Honours List.

Rob Nixon, who retired as Chief Constable of Leicestershire Police in March 2025, received the prestigious honour for his tireless services to policing and criminal justice. The award recognises a stellar 32-year career that saw him rise from a beat constable to the highest office in the force, as well as his vital national role navigating the UK’s justice system through a period of unprecedented crisis.

Speaking from retirement, Mr. Nixon described the news as "deeply humbling." While the award bears his name, he was quick to share the credit with the officers and staff he led across Leicester, Leicestershire, and Rutland.

"I am truly honoured," Mr. Nixon said. "The last few years working as both Chief Constable and the NPCC lead for criminal justice were hugely demanding but also incredibly rewarding. Every agency was under immense pressure... but what stands out most from that period is the people I was very privileged to work with."

He paid tribute to his family and his "outstanding" support team, noting that the achievements of the force were always a "collective leadership" effort.

Mr. Nixon’s tenure as Chief Constable (2022–2025) will be remembered for modernising the force during a period of extreme budgetary constraints. Under his watch, Leicestershire Police became a national leader in technology, adopting cloud infrastructure and AI to stay ahead of modern criminals.

He was also a champion of "prevention first," establishing a dedicated Prevention Directorate to stop crime at its roots and creating a nationally recognized academy to train the next generation of officers.

Locally, he was a steady hand during turbulent times, leading the response to the 2022 disorder in East Leicester and serving as the strategic lead for the region during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Though he has hung up his uniform, Mr. Nixon’s connection to the force remains strong. He is currently working with The Ian and Clare Mattioli Charitable Trust to raise funds for a new Memorial Garden at Police Headquarters, dedicated to those who gave their lives in the line of duty.

T/Chief Constable David Sandall offered his congratulations, stating:

"His commitment to the diverse communities of Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland and to also bringing change across the wider criminal justice system is something recognised by many partners... he should feel immensely proud."

Mr. Nixon previously received the Queen’s Police Medal (QPM) in 2020, making the CBE the second major royal recognition of his distinguished career.

Rob Nixon: A Career in Numbers

• 32: Years in policing.

• 1993: The year he joined Leicestershire Police as a constable.

• 3: Years served as Chief Constable.

• 2023: The year he took over the national NPCC lead for Criminal Justice.

• 2: Major royal honours (QPM and CBE).

Give Your Christmas Tree a Second Life at Rutland Farm Park

Give Your Christmas Tree a Second Life at Rutland Farm Park

The Christmas season may be winding down, but your festive decorations still have plenty of magic left in them. Rutland Farm Park in Oakham has officially launched its annual Christmas tree recycling initiative, turning your "trash" into a nutritional treasure for their resident animals.

If you are looking for an eco-friendly way to dispose of your tree, here is how you can help.

While most of us see a dry tree ready for the skip, the goats at Rutland Farm Park see a gourmet feast. Donating your real Christmas tree isn't just about waste reduction it’s about animal health. Christmas tree needles are packed with Vitamin C, providing a healthy winter boost for the livestock. The needles act as a natural de-wormer, helping the farm manage animal health organically. Enrichment: Beyond the nutrition, the goats simply love the taste and the texture, making it a highlight of their post-Christmas season.

New for 2025: Recycling Decorations

This year, the farm is expanding its sustainability efforts. If you are upgrading your Christmas decor or clearing out the attic, don't throw away your old festive gear.

The park is now accepting artificial trees and Christmas decorations. These items will be stored and repurposed to decorate the farm for next year’s festivities, helping the park stay festive while reducing landfill waste.

How to Donate

Dropping off your donation is simple and can be done at your convenience:

• Where: Simply bring your trees or decorations to the farm gates.

• When: Drop-offs are accepted daily at the front entrance.

• Location: Uppingham Road, Oakham, LE15 6JD.

Note: Please ensure all tinsel, lights, and baubles are removed from real trees before donating them to the animals to ensure they are safe to eat!

Contact Information

If you have questions about specific items or large donations, you can reach the team at:

• Phone: 01572 722122

• Email: admin@rutlandfarmpark.co.uk

• Website: rutlandfarmpark.co.uk

Celebrated in 2026 New Year Honours

Celebrated in 2026 New Year Honours

By Auckland War Memorial Museum Tāmaki Paenga Hira - Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 4.0

The newly released New Year Honours List has shone a spotlight on those connected to Rutland and its surrounding areas, recognising two individuals whose dedication to healthcare and grassroots sport has made a lasting impact both locally and nationally.

From the highest levels of medical pathology to the local cricket creases of the East Midlands, these awards highlight the breadth of talent and service within our community.

A Damehood for Medical Excellence: Dr. Suzannah Claire Lishman, DBE

The most senior honor for the region goes to Dr. Suzannah Claire Lishman, who has been appointed a Dame Commander of the Order of the British Empire (DBE).

Already a distinguished figure in the medical world, Dame Suzannah is the former President of The Association of Clinical Pathologists and has served as a Senior Advisor on Medical Examiners for the Royal College of Pathologists. Her DBE was awarded for her pivotal services to Improving the consistency and transparency of death certifications. Ensuring that lessons learned from medical data lead to better outcomes for patients across the UK.

Her work has been instrumental in modernising how the healthcare system reviews patient deaths, providing much-needed clarity for grieving families and strengthening the integrity of the NHS.

Honoured for a Lifetime in Sport: Geoffrey Hastings, BEM

Closer to home, the community is cheering for Geoffrey (Geoff) Hastings, a resident of nearby Stamford and a familiar face across the Rutland and Stamford cricket circuits. Mr. Hastings has been awarded the British Empire Medal (BEM) for his tireless services to cricket.

For decades, Geoff has been a cornerstone of the local sporting scene. Whether through coaching, administration, or maintaining the local game's heritage, his commitment has ensured that cricket remains a vibrant part of life for residents of all ages. His recognition is a testament to the "unsung heroes" who keep community spirits high through the love of the game.

The New Year Honours are a time-honored tradition designed to recognise people who have committed themselves to serving and helping Britain. They are a reminder that whether through high-level policy or local community engagement, individual efforts can change lives for the better.

For those interested in the full scope of this year's recognitions, the complete 2026 New Year Honours List is available via the Cabinet Office, detailing hundreds of stories of bravery, service, and achievement across the United Kingdom. 

The official New Year Honours List 2026 was published by the Cabinet Office on December 29, 2025. You can access the full details through the following official government links: 

New Year Honours List 2026 (GOV.UK) This page contains the complete searchable list of all 1,157 recipients and includes links to the list in both PDF and CSV formats.

The New Year Honours 2026 Collection A central hub for all related documents, including the High Awards list and the Overseas and International list.

The London Gazette (2026 Supplement): The official newspaper of record for the Crown, where the honours are formally gazetted as a permanent public record. 

If you wish to nominate someone for a future honour, you can find instructions on the official nomination page. www.gov.uk/honours  

Rutland MP Alicia Kearns "Betrayed" by Activist’s "Grotesque" Tweets; Withdraws Support for Alaa Abd El-Fattah

Rutland MP Alicia Kearns "Betrayed" by Activist’s "Grotesque" Tweets; Withdraws Support for Alaa Abd El-Fattah

Alaa Abd El-Fatah

A Creative Commons (CC) license

Alicia Kearns, the Member of Parliament for Rutland and Stamford, has issued a stinging public withdrawal of support for Alaa Abd El-Fattah, a British-Egyptian activist whose case has been a focal point of her human rights advocacy for years.

In a statement posted to social media on Saturday, the MP expressed feelings of "betrayal" following the discovery of past comments made by the activist, which she described as "grotesque" and "anti-semitic."

Alicia Kearns, who previously served as the Chair of the Foreign Affairs Select Committee, has been one of the most vocal champions for Abd El-Fattah’s release from an Egyptian prison. However, her stance shifted abruptly this weekend.

"Those of us who campaigned for Alaa Abd El-Fattah’s protection and release as a British citizen plainly were not aware of his grotesque tweets," Ms. Kearns stated. "I trusted the process to give Alaa citizenship, and then supported the campaign for his release. I feel deeply let down, and frankly betrayed, having lent my support to his cause which I now regret."

The MP clarified that the content of the tweets had not been raised with her until Friday, despite the long-standing international profile of the case.

While Ms. Kearns maintained that it remains "wholly improper" for British citizens to be held without due process by foreign states, she made her continued support contingent on a total renunciation of his previous statements.

She called on Abd El-Fattah to:

Unequivocally apologise for his past remarks.

Wholly reject the "hatred and anti-semitism" expressed.

Acknowledge that such views are incompatible with British values.

Despite the fallout from this case, the MP reaffirmed her commitment to the broader issue of state hostage-taking and arbitrary detention.

Alicia Kearns noted she would continue to advocate for other British citizens currently held abroad, specifically naming:

Jimmy Lai (Hong Kong)

Jagtar Singh Johal (India)

Craig and Lindsay Foreman (Iran)

The "Free Alaa" campaign has yet to issue a formal response to the MP’s statement. Abd El-Fattah, a key figure in the 2011 Egyptian revolution, was granted British citizenship in 2022 while serving a five-year sentence for "spreading false news."

In response to the fallout from Alicia Kearns MP’s statement and similar criticisms from across the political spectrum, Alaa Abd El-Fattah and several major organisations have issued formal responses.

In a lengthy statement released in the early hours of Monday, December 29, 2025, Alaa Abd El-Fattah directly addressed the controversy. He apologised, stating he understood "how shocking and hurtful" his past comments were. He explained the posts were "mostly expressions of a young man’s anger and frustrations" during a time of regional conflict (Iraq, Lebanon, and Gaza) and rising police brutality in Egypt. Regret for Tone: He admitted to a "total disregard for how they read to other people" during heated online arguments and conceded, "I should have known better." Misunderstanding: He claimed some of the older tweets had been "completely misunderstood" but acknowledged the offence they caused in their current context.

Reactions from Human Rights & Jewish Organisations

The reaction from advocacy groups has been split between condemning the rhetoric and defending the principle of due process.

Board of Deputies of British Jews, Expressed "profound concern" and stated there is an "urgent need" to determine if Abd El-Fattah still holds these extremist views. They criticised the "lack of due diligence" by the UK government.

Jewish Leadership Council, Stated they were "appalled" by the warm welcome initially given by the Prime Minister, noting the activist had previously advocated for violence against Zionists.

Amnesty International / HRW, While individual responses to the specific tweets are ongoing, these groups historically focused on the legal principle that his 12-year detention in Egypt was a breach of international law, regardless of his personal views.

European Parliament Groups, It was revealed that a group previously backing him for the Sakharov Prize (a top human rights award) had actually withdrawn his nomination as far back as 2014 after discovering a 2012 tweet calling for the murder of Israelis.

The Prime Minister and Foreign Office have since distanced themselves from the activist’s historic comments. A Foreign Office spokesperson officially condemned the tweets as "abhorrent," while maintaining that working for the release of any arbitrarily detained British citizen remains a standing priority.

Meanwhile, figures like Kemi Badenoch and Nigel Farage have gone further than Alicia Kearns, calling for a review of whether Abd El-Fattah’s British citizenship can be revoked.

“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."