Five Years on the Airwaves, a Rolling Birthday Celebration for Rutland and Stamford Sound, Photo Gallery and Video

Five Years on the Airwaves, a Rolling Birthday Celebration for Rutland and Stamford Sound

www.rutlandandstamfordsound.co.uk

Yesterday marked a historic milestone for our local airwaves as Rutland and Stamford Sound celebrated its 5th Birthday with a vibrant, traveling party that spanned the county. From Morris dancing in the morning mist to a glowing tribute at Rutland Water by night, the day was a testament to the station’s deep roots in the community.

The festivities kicked off at 9:30 am in Oakham Market Place. Under the watchful eyes of the Lord-Lieutenant of Rutland and the High Sheriff, the Rutland Morris Dancers provided a  performance that drew loyal listeners and station staff.

The centerpiece of the day soon arrived: a Blands "Rutlander" bus, specially decorated for the occasion. Members of the station team and including Oakham and Rutland News, climbed aboard as the bus prepared to depart for the next leg of the journey.

Upon arriving in Uppingham Market Place, the celebration moved to St Peter and St Paul’s Church. Inside, an assembled choir greeted the team with a rousing rendition of "Happy Birthday," followed by the aptly chosen anthem, "Celebration." The journey then continued toward the village of Easton on the Hill. During the transit, presenter Rob Persani broadcast live from the moving bus a technical feat he jokingly compared to the legendary offshore broadcasts of Radio Caroline aboard the MV Fredericia.

A significant stop was made at the Birch Tree Café in Easton on the Hill. This unique venue serves as a social enterprise where young people with Down’s Syndrome gain workplace skills, confidence, and independence.

"The café helps enthusiastic young staff members develop workplace skills, so they can realise their own ambitions."

The station team spoke with the café staff and shared birthday cupcakes in the café’s spacious surroundings. The Birch Tree Café is a hub for everyone from cyclists and walkers to "laptop drivers" and families and the station was proud to highlight their vital work in the community.

The "Rutlander" bus then made a grand entrance into the Burghley House estate. In the visitor car park, everyone was treated to a performance by award-winning Ukrainian pianist and composer Yaroslav Oliinyk, who played his portable keyboard as the station mascot made an appearance.

In a display of expert driving, the Blands bus usually seen on the Rutland Flyer route between Melton and Corby navigated the narrow, historic gates of the estate for a photo opportunity in front of the Cecil family home.

As the sun set on a day of community spirit, the celebrations concluded with a spectacular visual tribute. Normanton Church at Rutland Water was illuminated in the signature colors of Rutland and Stamford Sound, providing a shining end to celebrating five years of local broadcasting.

  

Photo Gallery:

Contact the Birch Tree Café:

Email: cafemanager@birchtreecafe.co.uk

Phone: 01780 763644

www.birchtreecafe.co.uk

www.rutlandandstamfordsound.co.uk

https://blands.info/

https://rutlandlordlieutenant.org/

https://rutlandhighsheriff.com/

https://www.rutlandandstamfordsound.co.uk/

https://burghley.co.uk/

www.uppinghamchurch.co.uk

https://www.rutlandmorris.org.uk/

www.facebook.com/YaroslavOliinykOfficial/

For more local news visit

https://oakhamandrutlandnews.co.uk/

Now Hiring Join the Award-Winning Team at The Marquess of Exeter

Now Hiring Join the Award-Winning Team at The Marquess of Exeter

Are you looking for a fresh start in a vibrant, fast-paced environment? 

The Marquess of Exeter, has officially announced a recruitment drive for several key positions.

Known for its blend of historic charm and modern hospitality, the Marquess is seeking enthusiastic, reliable, and hardworking individuals to help maintain its reputation for excellent service and a warm, welcoming atmosphere.

Current Vacancies

The team is currently looking to fill the following roles:

Housekeeping Staff, Ensuring the highest standards of comfort and cleanliness for guests.

Front of House Team Members, The face of the establishment, providing top-tier service in the bar and restaurant.

Kitchen Porter, A vital role supporting the culinary team in a high-energy kitchen environment.

Why Join the Team?

Whether you are a seasoned hospitality professional or someone looking to break into the industry, The Marquess of Exeter offers a supportive environment designed to help you succeed. Perks of joining the team include:

Competitive Pay, Rewarding your hard work and dedication.

Flexible Hours, Ideal for balancing work with personal commitments.

Growth Opportunities, A chance to develop your skills and progress within the hospitality sector.

Team Spirit, A friendly, inclusive culture where every member is valued.

What They’re Looking For

The ideal candidates don't necessarily need years of experience what matters most is a positive attitude and a strong team spirit. If you are passionate about people and take pride in providing a great experience for guests, you’ll fit right in.

"Join the team at Marquess of Exeter where great food, great drinks, and great people come together."

How to Apply

Ready to start your journey? Applying is simple:

Direct Message: Reach out via their social media pages.

www.facebook.com/marquessofexeter

Email: Send your CV directly to the management team for more information.

reservations@marquessofexeter.com

https://marquessofexeter.com/

Don't miss the chance to work at one of the region's premier destinations. 

Apply today and become part of the Marquess family.

Other Local Job Vacancies can be found in the Jobs Section of  Oakham and Rutland News:

https://oakhamandrutlandnews.co.uk/ 

Wild Rutland Opens Gates for First Public Conservation Events this March

Wild Rutland Opens Gates for First Public Conservation Events this March

The ambitious vision for Wild Rutland, a proposed 1,000-acre conservation-led visitor attraction, is moving from the planning stages to community action. Residents are being invited to step onto the site for the very first time this spring for two exclusive, free volunteering events.

Taking place on March 21 and March 25, these sessions offer a rare glimpse into the farmland, parkland, and ancient woods situated between Oakham, Rutland Water, and Burley. As the site is currently closed to the general public, the events represent a unique opportunity to explore the landscape before its proposed transformation.

A Vision for Restoration

Wild Rutland’s proposal, currently with Rutland County Council, aims to create a "visionary wildlife-led attraction" that prioritizes the heritage of the English countryside. The project's core mission is to restore and enhance the heritage landscape, reintroduce lost features of the local environment. Improve habitats to encourage a return of native wildlife.

What to Expect at the Events

Both events will follow the same itinerary, running from 10:00 am to 12:30 pm, so interested residents only need to attend one. The mornings will feature,  members of the Wild Rutland team will lead tours across the site, explaining their specific plans for ecological restoration and habitat creation. Attendees can learn about a variety of upcoming roles designed for those passionate about the outdoors. A chance to ask questions and understand the long-term community impact of the park.

How You Can Get Involved

The project is looking for a diverse range of volunteers to help bring the conservation plans to life. Initial opportunities include, hands-on work across the woodlands and wider landscape. Helping to track and record the biodiversity currently on-site. Training to eventually lead educational tours for future visitors.

"This is the first opportunity for the public to get truly involved in the project," says the Wild Rutland team. "We want to show people the potential of this ancient woodland and how they can play a part in its restoration."

Event Details & Registration

• Dates: Friday, 21 March and Tuesday, 25 March 2026

• Time: 10:00 am – 12:30 pm

• Location: Proposed Wild Rutland Site (Directions provided upon registration)

To Register: To join one of the volunteering days, email contact@wildrutland.com. To stay informed about future events and project updates, you can also visit wildrutland.com/events.

https://oakhamandrutlandnews.co.uk/

Final Piece of the Puzzle, Cameron Homes Acquires Last Plot at Oakham’s Barleythorpe Extension

Final Piece of the Puzzle, Cameron Homes Acquires Last Plot at Oakham’s Barleythorpe Extension

The long-running transformation of Oakham’s northern edge is reaching its conclusion. Cameron Homes, the Staffordshire-based developer, has officially acquired a three-acre residential parcel in Oakham, Rutland, marking the final chapter of the Barleythorpe Sustainable Urban Extension.

Purchased from Allison Homes, this acquisition represents the last undeveloped plot within the wider consortium site. It brings a 14-year development cycle to a close a journey that began with outline planning permission back in 2011 and has since delivered approximately 1,000 homes via major builders like Bellway and Charles Church.

Unlike many developments that face years of planning hurdles, this site is "oven-ready." Cameron Homes has secured detailed consent for 50 private, open-market homes, allowing for an aggressive construction schedule:

Spring 2026: Groundbreaking and start of construction.

Late 2026 (Q4): Scheduled completion and handover of the first homes.

John Hickman, Group Land Director for Tara Group and Cameron Homes, emphasised the strategic importance of the site:

"Securing an ‘oven-ready’ development opportunity... enables us to deliver the quality product that’s synonymous with the Cameron brand. We’re proud that the Oakham North consortium site will be concluded by a housebuilder with a 30-year reputation for constructing thoughtful, energy-efficient homes."

The 50-home scheme has been designed to blend traditional aesthetic appeal with modern efficiency. The architectural palette will feature:

Materials: Classic buff brick paired with grey roof tiles.

Detailing: Traditional brickwork, casement windows with horizontal glazing bars, and formal entrance treatments.

Beyond the façade, the development is leaning heavily into the "green" requirements of modern buyers. To achieve high EPC ratings, every home will be equipped with:

Solar photovoltaic (PV) panels.

Dedicated electric vehicle (EV) charging points.

Smart Hive heating controls for precision energy management.

The landscaping strategy aims to soften the new built environment by blending it with the existing Rutland countryside. The plans include the retention of all mature vegetation, bolstered by the addition of:

80 new trees and 50 metres of native hedgerow.

590 square metres of wildflower meadow to boost local biodiversity.

Extensive ornamental planting throughout the streetscenes.

About Cameron Homes

Established in 1994, Cameron Homes is currently a significant player in the Midlands property market. With this new Oakham acquisition, the builder continues to expand its footprint, currently managing over 200 units across 11 active sites, with a total forward pipeline of approximately 1,000 homes.

https://oakhamandrutlandnews.co.uk/

Prime Rutland Retail Hub Hits the Market for £1.9 Million

Prime Rutland Retail Hub Hits the Market for £1.9 Million

A cornerstone of the Oakham-area retail landscape is looking for a new owner. The Rutland Garden Centre & Garden Village, located in the village of Ashwell, has been listed for sale by Savills with a guide price of £1.9 million.

The freehold property represents a unique "village-style" retail destination, blending traditional horticulture with a diverse range of commercial income streams. Spanning approximately 4.34 acres (1.75 hectares), the site has evolved significantly since its inception over four decades ago.

Originally opened in 1983 as a traditional outdoor nursery, the site has been meticulously reconfigured into a courtyard layout. Today, it comprises five primary buildings totaling nearly 15,000 sq ft of internal space.

The sale includes a robust mix of assets:

The Garden Centre: A long-standing retail operation with a loyal local customer base.

The Restaurant: A 140-cover eatery that serves as a major footfall driver.

Retail Village: Six occupied units providing steady rental income from third-party tenants.

Residential Space: A first-floor flat located above the restaurant.

Ample Parking: Capacity for approximately 115 vehicles.

According to Savills, the property isn't just a legacy business; it’s a modernised asset. Reconfiguration works completed in 2025 were specifically designed to increase operational efficiency and boost underlying profitability.

Furthermore, the site holds a comprehensive premises license covering alcohol sales, live music, and films making it a versatile venue for community events and extended leisure offerings.

For the forward-thinking investor, the £1.9 million price tag includes more than just the current buildings. The sale features 0.34 hectares of outdoor sales space and additional ancillary land.

"The site’s long trading history and recent investment make it an appealing prospect for both hands-on operators and investors alike," says Kay Griffiths, Director in Leisure and Trading at Savills.

Kay Griffiths highlights that the undeveloped land offers significant scope for expansion, suggesting the site could accommodate further retail, leisure, or even childcare facilities, provided the new owners secure the necessary planning consents.

View the Full Listing

For detailed specifications, site maps, and to arrange a viewing, you can view the official property page here:

Savills Listing: Rutland Garden Centre, Ashwell Road, Oakham

https://oakhamandrutlandnews.co.uk/

The Wisteria Hotel & Hunters Bar A 17th-century Landmark, Oakham, Rutland

The Wisteria Hotel & Hunters Bar A 17th-century Landmark

Standing elegantly on Catmose Street, the Wisteria Hotel is one of Oakham’s most storied buildings. This Grade II listed property, part of which dates back to 1604, originally served as a grand hunting lodge. Today, it combines that Jacobean charm with modern boutique hospitality, serving as a key anchor in the "County of Good Taste."

The hotel’s heritage is visible in its architecture, featuring original timber beams, stone mullioned windows, and roaring open fireplaces.

A New Era: In 2018, the hotel underwent a significant £150,000 refurbishment under the ownership of seasoned hoteliers Kristy Carey and Chris Newsham, who transformed it into the welcoming, family-run boutique destination it is today.

Hunters Bar & Kitchen

The most historic wing of the hotel houses Hunters Bar & Kitchen. It is a favorite for both residents and locals, known for its cozy, "home away from home" atmosphere.

The bar is a showcase for Rutland producers. You’ll find craft ales from Oakham’s Grainstore Brewery, award-winning gins from Multum Gin Parvo, and specialty coffee roasted by Two Chimps Coffee right here in town.

Under the guidance of talented local chefs, the kitchen focuses on "honest, modern British food." Highlights include their famous Sunday Roasts, indulgent Afternoon Teas served in the snug, and popular theme nights like the Thursday Grill and Fishy Friday.

In true Rutland style, four-legged friends are welcome in the bar and snug areas, making it a popular pit-stop for dog walkers visiting from nearby Rutland Water.

Recent News (2026)

As of early 2026, the Wisteria Hotel has been placed on the market with a guide price of £1.8 million. While the current owners prepare to move on to their next chapter, the hotel continues to operate fully, offering its trademark warm welcome and high-quality dining to the Oakham community.

Plan Your Visit

Location: 4 Catmose Street, Oakham, Rutland, LE15 6HW

Dining Hours: * Lunch: Wednesday to Saturday (12:00 pm – 2:30 pm)

Dinner: Tuesday to Sunday (6:00 pm – 9:00 pm)

Sunday Lunch: 12:00 pm – 3:30 pm

Official Website www.wisteriahotel.co.uk

Discover Oakham 

to discover more 

Please Click Here To Visit

Discover Oakham

from Oakham and Rutland News

For all Oakham and Rutland Latest News

Please Click Here

https://oakhamandrutlandnews.co.uk/

Hungry Birds, A Quirky Retreat on Burley Road, Oakham, Rutland

Hungry Birds, A Quirky Retreat on Burley Road

If you are looking for a spot that perfectly captures the "independent" spirit of Oakham, Hungry Birds is a must-visit. Located at the beginning of Burley Road, just a stone's throw from the High Street, this charming coffee shop has earned a reputation for its eclectic décor, warm welcome, and some of the best homemade treats in Rutland.

Walking into Hungry Birds feels more like stepping into a friend's cosy, plant-filled living room than a standard café. The "quirky" aesthetic complete with houseplants, colorful local art, and comfortable seating makes it a favorite for both locals and visitors looking to escape the chain coffee shops.

The counter is always stacked with an impressive array of homemade cakes and bakes. From classic Victoria sponge to inventive vegan and gluten-free options, there is always something new to try.

The "Must-Try" Milkshakes: While their artisan coffee is top-tier, Hungry Birds has gained a cult following for its indulgent, thick milkshakes.

The menu also features a variety of light lunches, including savory toasties, wraps, and their acclaimed chicken sandwiches, often served with fresh side salads and homemade coleslaw.

The café is owned and managed by Ellen Cryer, who took over in late 2019. Under her leadership, Hungry Birds has become more than just a place for coffee; it’s a community hub. During the 2020 lockdowns, it was one of the first venues to pivot to a safe takeaway service, supporting the town during a difficult time. Today, that community spirit continues through their friendly service and support for local Rutland events.

Plan Your Visit

Location: 2 Burley Road, Oakham, Rutland, LE15 6DH

Opening Times (2026)

Monday – Saturday: 9:00 am – 5:00 pm

Sunday: Closed

Official Website

You can find their full menu and latest seasonal specials here:

Website: www.hungry-birds.weeblyte.com

Discover Oakham 

to discover more 

Please Click Here To Visit

Discover Oakham

from Oakham and Rutland News

For all Oakham and Rutland Latest News

Please Click Here

https://oakhamandrutlandnews.co.uk/

Osprey Property Burley Road Oakham Rutland, A Full Circle Success Story in Oakham

Osprey Property Burley Road Oakham Rutland, A Full Circle Success Story in Oakham

Located on Burley Road, just a short walk from the Oakham town center, Osprey Property has long been a familiar name in the Rutland and Stamford property markets. Known for its high-end branding and "customer-first" approach to sales and lettings, the company recently made headlines with a significant acquisition that brought its founder’s story full circle.

Osprey was founded by a well-known figure in the regional property industry. Having gained extensive experience working for larger corporate firms, he decided to branch out on his own to create a more bespoke, independent agency.

The company was built on the foundation of local expertise and a "boutique" feel, specialising in everything from quaint Rutland cottages to modern developments. Over the years, Osprey expanded its footprint, opening offices in Oakham, Stamford, and Hull, and becoming a dominant force in the East Midlands property scene.

In a fascinating twist of professional fate, it was announced that Osprey Property had been acquired by LSL Property Services specifically joining the Marsh & Parsons and Thomas Morris network within the group.

This acquisition is particularly notable because it marks a "full circle" journey. Before founding Osprey, the owner had actually worked for the very group (LSL) that eventually bought his independent firm.

Whether you are looking to rent your first home in Oakham or sell a premium property in the Vale of Catmose, you can find the team at:

Location: 4 Burley Road, Oakham, Rutland, LE15 6DH

Contact: 01572 756675

Official Website: www.ospreyproperty.co.uk

Discover Oakham 

to discover more 

Please Click Here To Visit

Discover Oakham

from Oakham and Rutland News

For all Oakham and Rutland Latest News

Please Click Here

https://oakhamandrutlandnews.co.uk/