Oakham Council Divided as LGBT Flag Display for LGBT History Month is Cut to Just Two Days

Oakham Council Divided as LGBT Flag Display for LGBT History Month is Cut to Just Two Days

Oakham Council Divided as LGBT Flag Display for LGBT History Month is Cut to Just Two Days

By Local Democracy Reporter

A bid to fly the Progress Pride flag throughout February for LGBT History Month was defeated at Oakham Town Council on January 14, following a tie-break vote that favored a "proportionate" two-day display instead.

The original proposal, brought by Cllr Martin Brookes and Cllr Sally-Anne Wadsworth, called for the flag to fly at Cutts Close for the entire month to honour the history, resilience, and remembrance of the LGBTQ+ community. However, the meeting ended in a stalemate that required the Chairman’s intervention to resolve.

During the debate, Cllr Paul Ainsley introduced an amendment to limit the display to the first and last days of February. Cllr Ainsley, speaking in his capacity as the council’s Armed Forces Champion, argued that the council must remain "balanced and consistent" in how it recognizes different groups.

He expressed concern that a month-long display would create an "imbalance" compared to other significant commemorations.

"Events such as Armed Forces Day and Remembrance, both of which carry deep national importance, are marked for a single day," Cllr Ainsley noted in his supporting paper. "It would be challenging to justify a full month-long display for one group when others, including veterans, receive a much shorter period".

 The vote on the amendment was split down the middle, leading Chairman Cllr Chris Nix to use his casting vote to pass the restricted two-day schedule.

The decision has sparked a sharp backlash from the original proposers, who believe the move misses the point of the month-long observance. Their original report highlighted that February was strategically chosen to mark the 2003 abolition of Section 28, a law that once prohibited local authorities from "promoting" homosexuality.

They also argued the flag serves as a "solemn remembrance" for LGBTQ+ victims of the Holocaust and an apology to veterans who were historically criminalised for their sexuality. "In my personal opinion, this decision significantly devalues the purpose of observing LGBT History Month, which has been recognised since 1994," the sponsoring councillors Brookes stated.

The friction extended to the council's public relations. The council rejected a draft press release from Cllrs Wadsworth and Brookes, stating it contained personal opinions rather than a neutral corporate stance. Cllr Brookes maintains that the now-approved version fails to inform residents of the historical reasons for flying the flag.

Questions regarding public opposition were also raised. While the flag was flown last year with few negative objections seen on social media, a recent Freedom of Information (FOI) request revealed that Oakham Town Council received only one written objection from a resident.

However, a different picture emerged this week. Chris Evans informed both Cllr Wadsworth and Cllr Brookes that he had personally answered numerous telephone calls from individuals that were "extremely abusive and homophobic" during the period the flag was flown last year.

Rutland’s Future MP Secures Ministerial Meeting Amid Merger Fears

Rutland’s Future MP Secures Ministerial Meeting Amid Merger Fears

Rutland’s Future MP Secures Ministerial Meeting Amid Merger Fears

By Local Democracy Reporter

The future of Rutland’s independence hangs in the balance this week after Alicia Kearns, MP for Rutland and Stamford, secured a high-level meeting with government ministers to challenge controversial plans for local government reorganisation.

Addressing the House of Commons during Topical Questions for the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, Alicia Kearns expressed grave concerns that England’s smallest county could effectively "cease to exist" within three years.

The row centers on Rutland County Council’s (RCC) decision to pursue the "North, City, South" model. Under this proposal, Rutland would likely be absorbed into a new unitary authority alongside Charnwood, Melton, and parts of North Leicestershire.

Alicia Kearns argued that the Liberal Democrat-led administration has "steamrolled" the plans while purposefully ignoring the public’s preference for a merger with South Lincolnshire and Stamford.

"Rutland’s council could have submitted its own government reform, but they left our fate in the hands of others," Mrs. Kearns told the House. "They submitted to join North Leicestershire... in opposition to the wishes of residents, which they know, but they purposely did not ask residents what we wanted."

The MP’s criticisms are backed by recent survey data. According to Alicia Kearns, the council’s own engagement exercise revealed:

• 45% of respondents used the "other comments" section to support a union with South Lincolnshire.

• One-third of residents spoke unfavourably about rejoining Leicestershire.

• Only 10% expressed support for the current "North, City, South" model favored by the council.

Despite these figures, the proposal to join South Lincolnshire was withdrawn from the table by council officers and the cabinet last November.

In response to the MP’s plea for residents to be consulted on a "Rutland and Stamford" model, Alison McGovern, Minister for Local Government, acknowledged the "complicated situation" and agreed to a formal meeting to discuss the county's status.

The meeting comes after Alicia Kearns’ recent attempt to protect Rutland’s standalone status via an amendment to the English Devolution and Community Empowerment Bill was unsuccessful. She now hopes direct ministerial intervention will force a rethink of the council’s strategy.

"I will be making sure the Government is aware of how deep the democratic deficit at the council has been," Mrs. Kearns said following the session. "Our local communities deserve to have their voices heard."

Read the Debate once published

You can read the full exchange between Alicia Kearns MP and the Minister for Local Government on the official Parliament record here: Hansard: Local Government Reform - Rutland and Stamford (Note: Use the Hansard search tool for "Alicia Kearns" and "Local Government Reform" to find the specific transcript from the latest session).

Change of Leadership for Rutland Liberal Democrats

Change of Leadership for Rutland Liberal Democrats

Cllr Christine Wise

Rutland’s political landscape saw a significant shift this week as Cllr Gale Waller announced her decision to step down as Leader of the Rutland Liberal Democrats.

The local party has confirmed that Cllr Christine Wise, who represents the Uppingham ward and currently serves as the Cabinet Member for Highways, Transport, and the Environment, will take over the leadership of the group with immediate effect.

Despite relinquishing her party-specific leadership role, Cllr Waller will continue in her capacity as Leader of Rutland County Council. This move appears designed to allow her to focus more intensely on the broader governance of the county and her regional responsibilities.

In addition to her role at Catmose, Cllr Waller will remain the Leader of the East Midlands Council Liberal Democrat Group, maintaining Rutland’s influence on the wider regional stage.

The transition marks a new chapter for the local Liberal Democrat group. Cllr Christine Wise is a well-known figure in the community, particularly for her work on local infrastructure and environmental policy.

In a brief statement following the announcement, party members expressed their gratitude to Cllr Waller for her years of dedicated service to the party, while welcoming the "fresh perspective and energy" that Cllr Wise brings to the leadership role.

Role	Current Holder
Leader of Rutland County Council	Cllr Gale Waller
Leader of Rutland Liberal Democrats	Cllr Christine Wise
Leader of East Midlands Council Lib Dems	Cllr Gale Waller

OAKHAM TOWN COUNCIL IN CRISIS, Chairmanship Challenge and Financial Questions Loom Over Victoria Hall. Council Meeting, 6:30 p.m. on Wednesday, January 14th 2026

By Local Democracy Reporter

Oakham Town Council is bracing for one of its most contentious sessions in recent history. When councillors gather at Rol House on Wednesday, January 14th, they will not only be setting the taxpayer-funded budget for the coming year but will also face a dramatic vote to oust the current Chairman.

The meeting follows a turbulent session on December 10th, the fallout of which has left the council divided over chairmanship, unauthorised spending, and the future of local traditions.

The headline of the evening is a formal Motion of No Confidence in the Chairman, Councillor Chris Nix. The motion, proposed by Cllr Martin Brookes and supported by Cllr Sally-Anne Wadsworth, levels serious allegations of procedural failure.

The proposers claim that during the December meeting, Cllr Nix failed to uphold "Standing Orders" the council’s own rulebook by allowing a resident to air personal grievances and launch a verbal attack against a member during a public session. Because the meetings are live-streamed, Cllrs Brookes and Wadsworth argue the failure to intervene has brought the council into disrepute and allowed the public gallery to be used for "targeted bullying and harassment."

The Chairmanship vacuum is further complicated by the need to elect a new Deputy Chairperson following the recent resignation of Cllr Douthwaite.

Financial transparency has also come under fire. Recent records reveal payments totaling over £2,600 to contractor Anthony Adcock for electrical work in the Market Place and Gaol Street. However, reports suggest that this expenditure and the work itself was never formally approved by the full council.

Further questions surround payments to Rutland County Council for CCTV maintenance and street lighting electricity. It has emerged that no formal service agreements currently exist for these payments, though the Clerk has expressed hope that contracts will finally be signed this year.

In a rare move toward community involvement, a local resident has been co-opted onto a new working group to oversee the Christmas lights and Christmas tree projects, a significant undertaking for the town.

Confusion continues to swirl around the Victoria Hall Project. While the council recently committed £7,000 in Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) funds for "specialist advice," the project's ultimate goal remains "very unclear." With tenants currently moving out of the building, residents are left wondering what the council’s long-term vision or lack thereof truly is.

Social issues are also proving a flashpoint. A proposal to fly the inclusive Progress Pride Flag for the duration of LGBT History Month in February has hit a procedural wall.

Cllrs Brookes and Wadsworth are seeking to formalise the tradition, following a new policy that requires all flags (such as the recently approved County Flag for Rutland Day) to receive formal council consent.

However, Cllr Paul Ainsley has tabled an amendment that would drastically reduce the display. His proposal suggests flying a standard 6-stripe flag rather than the Progress version, and limiting it to just two days the 1st and 28th of February between the hours of 10:00 am and 4:00 pm.

This "six-hour window" has been criticised as a logistical sabotage; since the council’s flag-raising staff member is part-time, the flag would only be visible during a fraction of the month. Cllrs Brookes and Wadsworth have hinted they may withdraw the motion entirely if the amendment passes, claiming it "detracts from the purpose" of the event.

The debate has been further fueled by a Freedom of Information (FOI) request. While the council office previously claimed "offensive" complaints prevented them from sharing public feedback with members, the FOI revealed that only one non-offensive complaint had actually been received.

Beyond the political fireworks, the council must also approve tenders for church wall repairs, tree works, and playground maintenance.

Also on the agenda is the Church Street Toilet Sign. This went missing during renovations last year.

The public is invited to witness the proceedings at Rol House, Long Row, at 6:30 p.m. on Wednesday, January 14th. With the 2025/26 budget and the Chairman’s future on the line. 

OAKHAM TOWN COUNCIL TAX BILLS TO RISE Is Your Money Being Spent on Progress or Paperwork?

OAKHAM TOWN COUNCIL TAX BILLS TO RISE Is Your Money Being Spent on Progress or Paperwork?

By Local Democracy Reporter

Residents of Oakham are facing another increase in their council tax as Oakham Town Council prepares to sign off on its 2026/27 budget. While the council highlights its commitment to community services, a closer look at the balance sheets reveals a growing trend of high staffing costs and an administrative bill that eats up nearly half of the total budget.

The Council has proposed a total precept demand of £306,777 for the upcoming financial year. This represents a 4.6% increase over the previous year's figure of £293,294. Despite the Finance Committee describing this as "prudent fiscal management" in the face of inflation, the rising cost of local governance is likely to draw scrutiny from households feeling the pinch.

The most striking figures in the new budget relate to the cost of the council's own bureaucracy. The total "General Administration" bill has reached a staggering £162,900.

Salaries, pensions, and payroll management are budgeted at £105,600 representing the single largest expense for the council.

Rent and business rates (NNDR) for the council offices total £17,850.

Professional Fees: A significant £8,000 has been set aside for legal expenses, with another £3,000 for accountancy and audit fees.

The budget includes £2,000 for Chairmans' Allowances.

When calculated against the total expenditure of £373,050, approximately 43.7% of all council spending is swallowed by general administration.

What Do Residents Get in Return?

While administrative costs soar, the council allocates 56.3% (£210,150) of its budget to direct community benefits. While this is the majority of the spend, critics may argue that for every pound paid by the taxpayer, nearly 44p is spent just on the cost of "running the council" before a single flower is planted or a street light is turned on.

Direct community "benefit" costs for 2026/27 include The Oakham Hopper a £29,000 contribution to keep the free bus service running.

£35,000 for Christmas decorations and £17,500 for floral displays.

£25,000 for community street lighting and £5,800 for community CCTV.

£34,000 for grounds maintenance and £10,500 for planned maintenance of play equipment.

The Victoria Hall Factor

The budget also hints at future spending, with £12,000 placed into an "Ear Marked Reserve" for a potential move to Victoria Hall. The council describes this as "futureproofing" and a way to secure a "valuable community asset," though it remains to be seen if moving the administrative hub will offer better value for money for the residents of Oakham.

The full budget and precept demand will be presented for approval at the Full Council meeting on Wednesday, 14th January 2026.

Budget Breakdown at a Glance:

Total Expenditure: £373,050 

Precept Demand: £306,777 (Up 4.6%) 

Staffing Bill: £105,600 

Admin vs. Action: 43.7% Administration / 56.3% Community Services. 

Based on the budget documents for the 2026/27 financial year, Oakham Town Council has a total of £129,298 in reserves.

These funds are divided into two main categories:

1. General Reserves (£99,178)

These are unallocated funds held to ensure the council remains financially stable and can cover unforeseen costs.

2. Earmarked Reserves (£32,000)

These funds are set aside for specific future projects or potential liabilities:

OTC Buildings Maintenance (£15,000): Specifically reserved for the upkeep of council-owned property.

Move to Victoria Hall (£12,000): Allocated to support "futureproofing" and the potential relocation of the council offices to the Victoria Hall building.

Capital Expenditure for Christmas Lights (£35,000): Designated for the purchase or significant upgrade of the town's festive lighting.

Editor’s Comment: The 44p Machinery

When we look into the staggering administration costs at Oakham Town Council, the figures are difficult to reconcile with standard practice. Guidance for the non-profit and grant-making sector from the UK Government often suggests that administration costs should ideally not exceed 10% to 15% of an overall budget.

While it is true that larger unitary or county councils typically boast lower administrative percentages simply because they benefit from "economies of scale" that a small town cannot match there is a point where the "engine room" begins to overshadow the journey.

The 43.7% Reality: At Oakham, we have reached a point where for every £1.00 collected via your precept, nearly 44p is spent on the "machinery" of the council. This covers the salaries, office rent, legal fees, and audits required just to keep the doors open.

Only after that 44p is lopped off the top does the remaining change reach the streets in the form of the things you actually see: bins, floral displays, Christmas lights, and street lighting. It is the remainder that pays for the CCTV that keeps us safe, the litter picking and grass cutting across our three parks, the summer band concerts, and the Oakham Hopper Bus.

As the council moves to increase the precept by another 4.6%, residents must ask themselves: are we paying for a community that thrives, or are we simply paying to maintain the machine that manages it? 

Alicia Kearns Rutland and Stamford MP to Host Major Careers Fair January 2026 Stamford Arts Centre.

Alicia Kearns Rutland and Stamford MP to Host Major Careers Fair January 2026 Stamford Arts Centre.

Local residents seeking fresh professional horizons are being urged to head to the Stamford Arts Centre later this month for a major Job and Careers Fair hosted by Alicia Kearns MP.

The event, scheduled for Friday, 23rd January, aims to connect job hunters, school leavers, and those considering a career change with dozens of the region’s leading employers and training providers.

Running from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM, the fair will transform the Arts Centre into a networking hub. More than 30 employers have already confirmed their attendance, spanning a diverse range of sectors. Attendees can expect to meet representatives from, Lincolnshire Police and educational institutions. Major players in Engineering, Manufacturing, and Haulage and Specialists in Social Care and Events Management.

Speaking ahead of the event, Alicia Kearns, Member of Parliament for Rutland and Stamford, emphasised the hidden potential within the local economy.

"Very few people realise just what varied and exciting job opportunities are on our doorsteps," Alicia said. "Whether you are taking your first step on the career ladder or looking for a new direction, this is a chance to showcase the very diverse and wonderful job and apprenticeship opportunities on offer in our local economy."

The fair is being supported by prominent local organisations including Zeeco, Ellis Cook, and Stamford College, highlighting a community-wide effort to boost local employment.

While the exhibition hall is nearly at capacity, the MP’s office has confirmed that there is space for one more business to join the event. Stalls are provided free of charge, offering a unique platform for local firms to recruit talent directly. Interested businesses are encouraged to book via the MP's official website immediately.

The Job and Careers Fair is completely free to attend, and no prior registration is required for visitors.

When: Friday, 23rd January | 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM

Where: Stamford Arts Centre, 27 St Mary’s Street, Stamford, PE9 2DL

More Info: Residents can find further details or sign up for updates at aliciakearns.com.  

Leicestershire Fire and Rescue Service High-Level Rescue Engineer Stranded in Oakham

Leicestershire Fire and Rescue Service High-Level Rescue Engineer Stranded in Oakham

An afternoon of routine maintenance turned into a dramatic  rescue today in Oakham. A contractor working for Openreach was left stranded high in the air after his equipment suffered a mechanical failure on Willow Crescent.

The engineer was reportedly working from a "cherry picker" aerial platform when the machinery attached to his van malfunctioned, leaving him unable to return to the ground.

The incident occurred on what has been one of the colder days of the week. The engineer was stuck in the air for nearly two hours.

Leicestershire Fire and Rescue Service arrived on the scene to assist. To reach the stranded worker, crews deployed one of their large hydraulic aerial ladder platform. Willow Crescent was closed to all through traffic to allow the heavy fire apparatus space.

A New Chapter for Rutland County Library in Oakham, Temporary Closure for Major Refurbishments

A New Chapter for Rutland County Library in Oakham, Temporary Closure for Major Refurbishments

Exciting changes are coming to Rutland’s library services. To ensure the next phase of modernisation is completed safely and efficiently, Oakham Library will temporarily close starting Monday, 12 January, for approximately two weeks.

This short-term closure is a pivotal step in the wider Living Well Rutland programme, aimed at transforming local libraries into vibrant, flexible community hubs that support learning, health, and wellbeing.

While the doors may be closed briefly, the result will be a significantly enhanced environment for all residents. Once reopened, the library will feature a new layout designed for comfort and accessibility. Key improvements include:

• A Dedicated Community Room: A versatile space for adult and children’s activities, community learning, and wellbeing events.

• Enhanced Children’s Area: A refreshed and engaging space designed to inspire young readers.

• Modern Technology: A suite of brand-new public computers and a more accessible reception desk.

• Youth & Family Support: Next door at the Family Hub, new spaces are being created for young people to meet, alongside a dedicated sensory room for babies and toddlers.

Rutland County Council is committed to minimising disruption. During the two-week closure, residents can still access the following resources

Collections and Returns

You can still return or collect books at a designated point within the Family Hub, located directly next to the library.

Alternative Spaces

The Rutland County Museum will be available for residents to use.

• Hours: Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday (10:00 am – 4:00 pm).

• Facilities: Local newspapers and soft seating in the Main Hall.

• Connectivity: While public computers are unavailable at the museum, free Wi-Fi is available for those using personal devices.

Partner Services

Services such as DWP appointments, the Bereavement Hub, and Age UK may be paused or moved to alternative venues. Please contact these providers directly for specific updates.

Library Services Across Rutland

Work is also progressing at other sites across the county:

• Uppingham Library: Services continue to operate successfully from the Town Hall.

• Ketton Library: Expected to reopen toward the end of January; book collections remain available at the Parish Council office.

• Ryhall Library: Remains open as usual.

A Word from the Council

"While we always aim to minimise disruption, the safety of our residents and staff must come first... Once complete, these works will allow our libraries to operate as safe, welcoming and flexible spaces that communities can enjoy for years to come." Councillor Christine Wise, Cabinet Member for Transport, Environment and Communities.

The Council thanks residents for their continued patience as these "Living Well" improvements bring Rutland’s libraries into the modern era.

Storm Goretti: Heavy Rain and Sleet Bring Rutland to a Standstill

Storm Goretti: Heavy Rain and Sleet Bring Rutland to a Standstill

This time 2018

Rutland has woke up to significant disruption this morning as Storm Goretti sweeps across the region. Overnight heavy rain and sleet have transformed local roads into hazards, leading to widespread cancellations of community events, school closures, and emergency response operations that have spanned the early hours.

The severe weather has forced several local staples to close their doors today. At All Saints Church, Oakham, the decision was made early this morning to cancel the 10:00 am service as well as the popular Oasis coffee group.

Additionally, Music Bugs Rutland, which usually brings families together in the All Saints Church Hall, has cancelled today's classes to ensure the safety of parents and children. Residents are advised to check social media pages for updates regarding weekend activities.

While most were tucked away from the storm, volunteers from the Leicestershire & Rutland 4x4 Response team have been working tirelessly. After transporting a doctor to Leicester, teams spent the early hours of Friday morning assisting drivers trapped in snow blocked roads on the Oakham side of Tilton Hill.

Conditions on the hill were reportedly treacherous; while many vehicles were successfully cleared, a number of cars were forced to be abandoned and remain in place until conditions improve.

To bolster local safety, Rutland Medical Solutions Ltd has announced the deployment of off-road vehicles staffed by professional Paramedics. This specialist service is designed to support the community in reaching essential destinations and to provide rapid assistance in medical emergencies where standard ambulances may struggle. Service Start: 08:30 hrs, Friday 9th January 2026, Service End: 09:00 hrs, Saturday 10th January 2026

Transport and Travel Updates

The impact on travel remains a mixed picture for the county:

Buses: Bland’s Buses are currently aiming to run all routes as normal. However, the 361 service for UCC is not running today as Uppingham Community College has confirmed it is closed.

Trains: Rail travel is severely impacted. Cross Country Trains have cancelled almost all services to and from Oakham. Passengers are urged not to travel by rail unless absolutely necessary.

View the Live Oakham Departure Board

www.nationalrail.co.uk/live-trains/departures/oakham/

Local Advice: If you must travel, please allow extra time for your journey and carry a winter emergency kit in your vehicle.

Vigilant Policing Leads to Arrest at Oakham B&M Bargains

Vigilant Policing Leads to Arrest at Oakham B&M Bargains

A routine patrol turned into a successful apprehension on Saturday, January 3, 2026, as the Rutland Safer Streets Team caught a known offender red-handed at the B&M Bargains store in Oakham.

The incident highlights the importance of officer intuition and the strong partnership between local law enforcement and retail staff.

The encounter began when PC Rob and PC Dave spotted a male while entering Oakham. The officers immediately recognised the individual from Melton Mowbray. Because the man was not known to frequent the Oakham area, his presence raised immediate red flags for the team.

Following their instincts, the officers observed the male heading toward the B&M store. Upon arrival at the premises, store staff confirmed the officers' suspicions, reporting that the individual was inside the store actively filling a bag with various electronic goods.

The Safer Streets Team moved quickly to secure the scene. PC Dave took up a tactical position outside the main entrance, waiting for the suspect to exit.

"The male was certainly not expecting the first person he would see upon leaving with a bag full of unpaid items to be a police officer," the team noted in a statement.

The suspect was intercepted and arrested on the spot. All stolen electronics were recovered and returned to the store immediately.

The individual has since been identified as Myles CARTER. Following his arrest, Myles Carter was officially charged in relation to the thefts.

This arrest serves as a firm reminder of the ongoing efforts by the Safer Streets Team to deter retail crime and keep Oakham’s shopping districts safe for both businesses and residents.

Burst Pipe Causes Temporary Closure of Snapdragon Mill Street Oakham

Burst Pipe Causes Temporary Closure of Snapdragon Mill Street Oakham

Snapdragon, has announced an emergency closure following a significant plumbing failure that has left the premises severely damaged.

The disaster unfolded when pipes burst in the offices located directly above the shop. Staff arrived to find a "river" flowing through the center of the building. Despite a quick response to locate and turn off the main stopcock, the sheer volume of water had already compromised the structure.

While the initial flood has been mopped up, the aftermath remains critical The upstairs offices have sustained serious impact, and the downstairs ceilings were still dripping late into the day. In a particularly dangerous turn, water was found pouring through light fittings and electrical sockets. For safety reasons, the electricity has been cut off entirely, leaving the building temporarily uninhabitable.

Snapdragon is currently waiting on a formal assessment. A professional assessor is scheduled to visit tomorrow to determine the full scope of the repairs needed and to provide an estimated timeline for reopening.

"It’s a complete disaster," Snapdragon shared, though they expressed gratitude for the quick action taken to mitigate further water damage once the leak was discovered.

Snapdragon will remain closed until further notice. They promised to provide a follow-up update as soon as the assessor provides their report.

www.facebook.com/snapdragonoakham

"Complex" Burst Water Main Leaves Langham and Oakham Without Supply

"Complex" Burst Water Main Leaves Langham and Oakham Without Supply

Residents in Langham and the surrounding Oakham area are facing a second day of major water disruption following a significant burst pipe on Melton Road.

The issue was first reported in the early hours of Tuesday, 6 January, affecting homes across the LE15 postcode. Engineers from Severn Trent Water arrived on-site shortly after to begin emergency repairs on a main located on Melton Road.

While initial estimates suggested that the water would be flowing again by mid-afternoon yesterday, the utility company has since confirmed that the situation is more serious than first thought. In an update issued at 6:29 AM this morning, a spokesperson admitted that teams "found the repair to be a lot more complex than first anticipated."

The burst has left hundreds of households in Langham grappling with no running water since Tuesday morning.

Those who still have a supply are reporting a "trickle" that is insufficient for showers or household appliances.

Residents have been warned that when the water does return, it may appear brown or orange due to disturbed sediment in the pipes.

Severn Trent has issued a formal apology for the ongoing inconvenience, stating that teams are working "around the clock" to resolve the issue.

With the repair entering its second day, residents are being advised to take precautions:

Do not use dishwashers or washing machines until the supply is fully restored and clear.

For those on the Priority Services Register, Severn Trent is coordinating alternative water deliveries where necessary.

Melton Road remains partially restricted to allow heavy machinery to access the burst site, leading to minor delays for commuters heading in and out of Oakham.

The water company is expected to provide a further update later today. Under industry regulations, if the supply is not restored within a set timeframe, affected customers may be entitled to automatic compensation.

Leicestershire and Rutland Police Officer Charged with Rape and Sexual Assault

Leicestershire and Rutland Police Officer Charged with Rape and Sexual Assault

A serving police constable with the Leicestershire Police force has been formally charged with multiple sexual offenses, including rape.

The charges against Stephen Reynolds, 28, follow an investigation into incidents reported to have occurred several years ago. Stephen Reynolds is now facing legal proceedings as the case moves toward a preliminary court hearing.

The charges filed against Stephen Reynolds include:

Two counts of rape.

One count of assault by penetration.

The allegations involve a single adult female victim who was reportedly known to Stephen Reynolds. The incidents are said to have taken place in 2019, prior to the current legal action.

Leicestershire Police have confirmed that Stephen Reynolds is currently suspended from duty pending the outcome of the legal proceedings. While he remains on police bail for the moment, he is scheduled to appear at Northampton Magistrates’ Court tomorrow, Wednesday, January 7, 2026.

The force has not provided further comment on the specifics of the investigation, as is standard practice while a case is active before the courts.