The latest news from Rural Innovation In Action (RIIA) highlights a series of strategic developments under the joint programme delivered by Rutland County Council and Melton Borough Council

The RIIA Roundup Advancing Local Infrastructure and Economic Growth

The latest news from Rural Innovation In Action (RIIA) highlights a series of strategic developments under the joint programme delivered by Rutland County Council and Melton Borough Council to breathe new life into the local economy. 

This collaborative initiative is currently overseeing major capital investments and community-focused projects designed to enhance transport, support local industry, and preserve regional heritage.

A significant phase of work has commenced at the Local Link site following the appointment of regional contractor Stepnell in mid-February. 

This project involves the internal and external transformation of the Jules House Oakham site into a reimagined community space and hub for transport initiatives. Beyond creating lettable office space and community group access, the development focuses on improving connectivity to the town and train station through safe minibus turning areas and enhanced pedestrian access.

The project also emphasises local economic integration. According to Tom Sewell, director at Stepnell, the initiative achieved an 82.79% local spend within a 30-mile radius as of late January. This is paired with a programme of careers support and community initiatives intended to provide value while minimizing disruption to residents and visitors.

In Melton Mowbray, the Food Producers Network continues to serve as a hub for innovation and industry collaboration. This bi-annual event series provides a platform for regional producers to share ideas and establish professional connections. Recent sessions have already yielded tangible results; for instance, Cafe Allez has begun trading at the Wednesday market and is evaluating the Stockyard development as a potential permanent base.

The ongoing development of Stockyard is intended to provide a focus for the borough's food culture, attracting both businesses and tourists. Matt Hall of Hidden Food Tours notes that the site creates a platform for local businesses to harness their unique stories and contribute to the area's food legacy.

The Rutland County Museum is set for a major expansion following a council-granted £6 million capital investment. This funding, secured through the recent budget and financial strategy, supports a large-scale project to relocate local history collections and construct a new extension.

The planned facility will include a dedicated Ichthyosaur gallery, a museum shop, a café, and a multi-use space designed to bring the county’s heritage to life. The first phase of this construction is scheduled to begin later this year, representing a significant step forward for the region's cultural development.

https://ruralinnovationinaction.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/RIIA-newsletter_March2026.pdf.pdf

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Rutland County Council Leader Shares Government Assurance on County’s Ceremonial Status

Rutland County Council Leader Shares Government Assurance on County’s Ceremonial Status

Alison McGovern MP

By David Woolfall

Gale Waller, Leader of Rutland County Council, has shared an update on efforts to safeguard Rutland’s ceremonial status, following discussions with central government.

In a statement released today, Gale Waller said she had continued to press Rutland’s case “behind the scenes,” seeking assurances from those with decision-making authority about the county’s future recognition. The update follows a request from the council for a stronger public commitment that Rutland’s ceremonial identity would be protected amid potential changes to local government structures.

The response was provided by Alison McGovern at the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG). In her letter, Alison McGovern stated that the government recognises the importance of the historic identity, rights and privileges associated with England’s counties and cities.

According to the minister, the government has “no intention” that planned work to simplify and strengthen local government arrangements would affect ceremonial roles or privileges. These include those held by figures such as High Sheriffs and Lord Lieutenants, who play roles in civic and community life.

Alison McGovern also acknowledged Rutland’s “long and proud heritage” and the strength of local support for maintaining its ceremonial identity. She reaffirmed that any future local government reorganisation would not inadvertently remove or diminish the county’s ceremonial rights.

The minister noted that Rutland’s current ceremonial status stems from its re-establishment as a unitary authority in 1997 rather than direct reference within the Lieutenancies Act 1997. Because of this, the government may consider using existing legislative powers to ensure continuity if needed.

One option outlined involves provisions within the Local Government and Public Involvement in Health Act 2007. These powers have previously been used to define areas covered by a Lord Lieutenancy, including through the Cumbria (Structural Changes) Order 2009.

Alison McGovern said that, if appropriate, a similar mechanism could be used through secondary legislation to secure Rutland’s ceremonial position. She added that the government remains committed to protecting the ceremonial heritage of historic areas and would continue to work with local partners to ensure such traditions endure.

Gale Waller described the statement as the “strongest possible commitment” received so far from government regarding Rutland’s ceremonial future.

Rutland, widely known as England’s smallest historic county, regained its status as a unitary authority in 1997 after a period within neighbouring local government structures. Its ceremonial identity including the offices of Lord Lieutenant and High Sheriff  remains a key element of local heritage and civic life.

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Rutland Police Announce Upcoming Beat Surgeries Across the County

Rutland Police Announce Upcoming Beat Surgeries Across the County

Residents in several Rutland villages will have the opportunity to speak directly with their local neighbourhood officer during a series of upcoming beat surgeries organised by Leicestershire Police.

The sessions, hosted by Rutland Police, are informal drop-in events where members of the public can raise concerns, seek advice, or simply meet their local Police Community Support Officer (PCSO). The events will be attended by PCSO Beth, who works with the local neighbourhood policing team.

Beat surgeries are designed to strengthen communication between police and communities, offering residents the chance to discuss issues such as anti-social behaviour, crime prevention, and local safety matters in person.

The upcoming sessions are scheduled as follows:

Barrowden Community Shop in Barrowden

Date: 28 March 2026

Time: 11:00am – 12:00pm

Ketton Parish Office in Ketton

Date: 11 April 2026

Time: 3:00pm – 4:00pm

Edith Weston Village Shop in Edith Weston

Date: 25 April 2026

Time: 11:00am – 12:00pm

Residents are encouraged to drop in during the sessions to discuss any local concerns, ask questions about policing in their area, or simply meet their neighbourhood PCSO.

Neighbourhood officers say the events are an important way to keep policing visible within the community and to hear directly from residents about issues affecting their villages.

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Oakham Town Council Bolsters Ranks with New Co-opted Member

Oakham Town Council Bolsters Ranks with New Co-opted Member

By Rutland Democracy Reporter

Monday, March 16, 2026

Cllr Andrew Padmore, North West Ward

Oakham Town Council has appointed a new councillor following a co-option process to fill a vacancy on the local authority. Andrew Padmore, a resident of Kilburn End, has joined the council after submitting a formal application earlier this year.

In his application, dated February 10, 2026, Andrew Padmore noted that while he has not traditionally been heavily involved in organised community groups, he remains closely connected to local activities through family life. As the father of a two-year-old child, he said he frequently attends family-focused events in town.

Among the events he cited were the annual Christmas light switch-on and the regular Sunday afternoon music performances held at Cutts Close Park. Andrew Padmore described these events as examples of the community activities that help bring residents together.

Andrew Padmore enters local government with a background in management. He currently serves as Head of Service for West EMEA (Europe, Middle East, and Africa) in the private sector.

During the co-option process, he outlined several principles he hopes to apply in his role as a councillor, listening carefully to understand the priorities and concerns of residents. 

Andrew Padmore confirmed that this is his first time serving on a council, marking an entry into local government through the co-option system. 

Co-option allows councils to fill vacancies between elections by selecting a candidate from applicants rather than holding a by-election.

The appointment comes as Oakham Town Council continues its routine governance and community initiatives. 

Andrew Padmore’s appointment increases the number of sitting councillors, it still require more to assist the authority to continue with its work on local projects and community engagement initiatives across Oakham.

Contact Cllr Andrew Padmore, North West Ward.

T: 07540425463

If you are interested in becoming a local councillor please contact the Clerk:

ROL House
Long Row
Oakham, Rutland
LE15 6LN

t: 01572 723627

email: enquiries@oakhamtowncouncil.gov.uk

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Inside the Mind Charity Shop on Oakham High Street, Oakham, Rutland.

Inside the Mind Charity Shop on Oakham High Street

A shop that offers far more than just retail therapy. Located at 40 High Street, the Mind charity shop has become a staple for locals who value sustainability, community, and, most importantly, the vital cause of mental health.

Stepping through the doors, visitors are often surprised by the high standard of the collection. Far from the cluttered bins of yesteryear, the Oakham branch is known for its boutique feel. The shelves are frequently stocked with designer labels and high-end high street fashion a testament to the generosity of the local community. Beyond the clothing rails, the shop serves as a treasure trove for book lovers, vinyl collectors, and those seeking unique homeware that adds character to a room in a way that flat-pack furniture simply cannot.

However, the true value of the Oakham shop lies in what happens after you leave the till. Every transaction is a direct contribution to Mind, the mental health charity. In an era where one in four people will experience a mental health problem each year, the funds raised here are more critical than ever. The money is funneled into a nationwide support system that includes the Mind Infoline a lifeline for those in crisis and the development of "Side by Side," an online community where individuals can find support in a safe, moderated environment.

By shopping at the Oakham branch, customers are also supporting Mind’s tireless advocacy work. The charity campaigns at the highest levels of government to improve mental health services and ensure that the legal rights of those struggling with their mental health are protected. Locally, these funds help sustain the network of support groups that ensure no one in the Rutland area or beyond has to navigate their darkest moments alone.

The shop is powered by a dedicated team of volunteers, many of whom are Oakham residents themselves. This local connection creates a warm, welcoming atmosphere where a quick chat over the counter can be just as valuable as the sale itself. For those looking to declutter, the shop gratefully accepts donations during opening hours, and for those with a few hours to spare, the team is always looking for new volunteers to help sort through the "hidden gems" that arrive daily.

Connect with Mind

To learn more about the work your purchases fund or to find resources for yourself or a loved one, you can visit the official Mind Website. You can also follow their national updates and find inspiration for sustainable living via their social media channels on Facebook, Instagram, and X (formerly Twitter).

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A Beacon on Northgate, The Living History of Oakham Methodist Church

 A Beacon on Northgate, The Living History of Oakham Methodist Church

On the historic northern edge of Rutland’s county town, Oakham Methodist Church stands as a testament to a faith that is as much about community action as it is about quiet contemplation. 

While the town’s skyline is dominated by the medieval spire of All Saints, the Methodist chapel on Northgate offers a different kind of architectural charm a warm, red-brick invitation to a space that has served as a spiritual and social anchor for generations.

The story of the church is inextricably linked to the growth of Oakham itself. Established during a period when "Nonconformist" worship was flourishing in rural England, the building was designed not for distant ceremony, but for closeness and clarity. 

Today, that heritage continues through its role in the Stamford Methodist Circuit, where it remains a vibrant hub for both lifelong residents and newcomers to England's smallest county.

The interior serves as a multi-purpose sanctuary. It is a frequent stop on the Oakham Town Trail, recognised by historians for its significance in the development of the town's social fabric. Inside, visitors are often surprised by the light-filled space which, beyond Sunday services, frequently hosts Theatre Groups and various local art circles, turning the chapel into a de facto gallery and stage for the community.

What truly defines Oakham Methodist is its "open door" philosophy. The church is known locally for its Monthly Easy Access services short, informal gatherings designed specifically for those with mobility issues or those who find traditional, lengthy liturgies daunting.

During the week, the building hums with a different kind of energy. It is home to a thriving Bowls Club, a dedicated Art and Prayer group, and the "Let’s Talk" social circle for women. 

Perhaps its most vital contribution to local life is the "Northgate" Newsletter, a bi-weekly publication that serves as a town diary, bridging the gap between the church congregation and the wider public.

Whether you are interested in the history of Rutland’s religious movements or simply looking for a quiet place to reflect, Oakham Methodist Church offers a genuine welcome.

Official Website: oakhammethodistchurch.co.uk

Location: Northgate, Oakham, Rutland, LE15 6QS

Updates: You can find the latest community news and digital copies of their newsletter on their Notices Page.

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A Timeless Pint Discovering the Historic Charm of The Wheatsheaf in Oakham

A Timeless Pint Discovering the Historic Charm of The Wheatsheaf in Oakham

Where the historic streets of Northgate meet the shadow of All Saints’ Church, stands The Wheatsheaf. Far from being just another stop on a Rutland ale trail, this Grade II listed gem serves as a living, breathing time capsule of English pub culture, blending 17th-century heritage with a vibrant, modern social energy.

Stepping through the front door, visitors are immediately greeted by the architectural soul of the building. Low-slung timber beams and limestone walls speak to its four hundred year history, while the crackle of the log fire in the winter months provides a sensory anchor for locals and travelers alike. It is a space that feels earned by time, offering a level of "olde world" authenticity that modern renovations simply cannot replicate.

The Wheatsheaf has carved out a reputation as a premier destination for both cask ale enthusiasts and those seeking honest, locally-sourced gastronomy. As a perennial favorite in the CAMRA (Campaign for Real Ale) guides, the bar is a shrine to craft, featuring an ever-rotating selection of guest ales and an impressive lineup of real ciders, such as the popular Rosie’s Pig. On the culinary side, the pub avoids "gastropub" pretension in favor of high-quality traditional fare. Their legendary Thursday Steak Night and generous Sunday roasts complete with towering Yorkshire puddings have become weekly rituals for the Oakham community.

What truly sets the pub apart, however, is its commitment to traditional entertainment. In an era where many historic features are stripped away, The Wheatsheaf retains its original skittle alley, tucked away in the converted outbuildings. This space, along with their famously competitive monthly quiz nights (held on the third Thursday of each month), ensures the pub remains a true "hub" rather than just a place to eat.

When the Rutland weather permits, the experience spills outdoors into what is widely considered one of the best pub gardens in the county. Beautifully landscaped and surprisingly tranquil given its central location, it offers the perfect vantage point to enjoy a pint of local bitter while soaking in the historic atmosphere of the town.

For those planning a visit to 2-4 Northgate, more information on seasonal menus and event schedules can be found on their official website or by following their latest updates on Facebook. Whether you are there for the history, the cider, or a game of skittles, The Wheatsheaf remains an essential chapter in the story of Oakham.

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Rutland and Stamford MP Secures Legislative Victory for Allergy Safety as Campaigning Continues on Multiple Fronts

Rutland and Stamford MP Secures Legislative Victory for Allergy Safety as Campaigning Continues on Multiple Fronts

Local MP Secures Legislative Victory for Allergy Safety as Campaigning Continues on Multiple Fronts By the Rutland and Stamford Democracy Reporter

MP Alicia Kearns

It has been a whirlwind fortnight for local residents and their representative, with major progress secured on a long-standing legislative campaign alongside a packed agenda covering everything from local high street recognition to national security concerns.

Following a tense period of parliamentary back-and-forth, local MP Alicia Kearns has announced that the government has committed to introducing "Benedict’s Law." This critical amendment, which she drafted, aims to bolster protections for children with allergies within school environments. The legislation is named in memory of five-year-old Benedict Blythe from Stamford, who tragically passed away after an allergic reaction at school in 2021.

The path to this victory was far from straightforward. While the amendment faced opposition from the government in the House of Lords, sustained pressure from cross-party peers and campaign groups led by the Benedict Blythe Foundation ultimately forced a reversal. Following intense negotiations, the government agreed to back the measure, ensuring its path into law as the bill returns to the Lords for its final stages.

Beyond the legislative win, there is further cause for optimism regarding the proposed "Child Cruelty Register," a campaign that has received long-standing support from the MP. After years of advocacy, the government has signaled it will now legislate to introduce the register often referred to as "Tony’s Law" which aims to prevent convicted child abusers from disappearing by changing their names or moving locations.

Amidst the high-stakes politics in Westminster, there has been cause for celebration closer to home. The annual Rutland and Stamford’s Favourite Independent Shop Awards saw record engagement this year, with over 41,000 votes cast by residents.

The overall winner for 2026 was announced as Walkers Bookshop in Stamford, a title that highlights the community's dedication to supporting local high streets during economically challenging times.

The broader economic outlook remains a primary focus for the constituency office. Following the Spring Statement, concerns have been raised regarding the forecast for 2026, which highlights halved growth predictions, rising unemployment, and the continued burden of high food and energy costs on households. The MP continues to urge the government to freeze fuel duties to offer some respite to residents and businesses.

Local issues also remain at the forefront. Residents are being urged to submit their views on the government’s public consultation regarding Local Government Re-Organisation before the March 26 deadline. This follows a period of frustration for the MP, who had to repeatedly press the Local Government Minister to secure a meeting to discuss concerns over the potential loss of Rutland’s ceremonial county status.

Other ongoing efforts in the community include:

Heating Oil, coordination with fellow MPs to challenge predatory pricing practices in the heating oil market.

Dementia Support, promotion of the new Rutland Carers Support Group, which will meet monthly at Uppingham Town Hall.

Uppingham Post Office, continued efforts to support the local Community Benefit Society in its bid to secure the future of the vital town service.

In her capacity as Shadow Minister for the Home Office, the local MP has been vocal on several fronts. This includes staunch opposition to government plans to restrict trial by jury for certain offences, which she has labeled an attack on civil liberties.

On the international stage, her recent work has spanned from securing Kosovo’s Presidential Medal of Merit for her support of the nation's sovereignty, to scrutinising government policy regarding the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) and the situation in Venezuela. Following a recent fact-finding trip to Guyana, she expressed reservations about the path toward democratic transition in Venezuela and emphasised the need for a coherent, strategic approach to international interventions.

As the weeks progress, the focus remains firmly on local representation and national policy advocacy. Residents seeking more information on the ongoing consultations or the MP’s recent parliamentary work are encouraged to visit her official website for further updates.

www.aliciakearns.com

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Rutland at a Crossroads, The Battle for the Future of England’s Smallest County

Rutland at a Crossroads, The Battle for the Future of England’s Smallest County

Rutland at a Crossroads, The Battle for the Future of England’s Smallest County

For centuries, Rutland has proudly upheld its motto, Multum in Parvo "Much in Little." Today, however, the future of England’s smallest county hangs in a precarious balance. 

As the March 26, 2026, deadline for the Government’s local government reorganisation consultation looms, Rutland County Council (RCC) has officially submitted a robust defence of the county’s identity, setting the stage for a showdown over the region's administrative future.

The Government is currently evaluating three competing visions for the restructuring of Leicester, Leicestershire, and Rutland. These proposals, submitted by local authorities in late 2025, seek to simplify governance by moving towards larger unitary authorities.

The first proposal, championed by Leicester City Council, involves a significant expansion of the city’s boundaries to incorporate surrounding suburbs, effectively creating two unitary councils for the entire region. Rutland County Council has firmly rejected this, describing it as an urban-centric, high-risk model that would leave Rutland as a peripheral appendage, stripping it of its unique rural character and local democratic influence.

A second option, put forward by Leicestershire County Council, proposes merging Leicestershire and Rutland into a single, massive unitary authority while leaving the city separate. RCC has similarly opposed this, warning that Rutland would be reduced to a small minority voice within a behemoth organisation. Drawing on their experience as a district of Leicestershire prior to 1997, the Council argues that such a structure would centralise power and fundamentally weaken the place-based prevention and local responsiveness that currently define Rutland’s service delivery.

The third and preferred path, which Rutland County Council helped co-author, is the "North, City, South" (NCS) model. This proposal suggests restructuring the region into three balanced unitary authorities: the City of Leicester, a North council comprising Rutland, Charnwood, North West Leicestershire, and Melton and a South council. RCC contends that this is the only model that strikes a sustainable balance. By utilising existing district boundaries, the NCS proposal avoids the disruptive redrawing of borders while maintaining Rutland’s identity and providing a proportionate platform for future devolution.

While the Council presents a united front in its consultation response, the political atmosphere within the county is charged. Council Leader Gale Waller has emphasised the extensive efforts made behind the scenes to secure Rutland's future. Yet, these assurances have faced sharp criticism from Alicia Kearns, MP for Rutland and Stamford. Kearns has expressed deep skepticism regarding the Government’s commitment to protecting Rutland’s ceremonial county status, describing recent ministerial assurances as "warm words" devoid of a concrete plan or legislative teeth.

Alicia Kearns has been vocal about the perceived disconnect between the Council’s strategy and the concerns of local residents. Citing survey data, she argues that the public has been largely ignored throughout the process, noting that many residents have expressed strong opposition to merging with Leicestershire and a preference for exploring other regional partnerships. The MP has called for greater transparency and, ideally, a local referendum to ensure that the voices of Rutlanders are not sidelined in the pursuit of administrative efficiency.

As the consultation period draws to a close, the final decision expected by the summer of 2026 carries profound implications. For the Council, the NCS model represents a pragmatic path toward modernising services while preserving the county’s historical integrity. For residents and their parliamentary representative, the struggle is fundamentally about agency, identity, and ensuring that "Much in Little" remains more than just a motto.

To help clarify the structural changes proposed for the region, it is useful to visualise how these boundaries compare, as each model significantly alters the current administrative landscape of Leicestershire and Rutland.

Under the North, City, South (NCS) model, Rutland would be grouped with neighbouring districts into a "North" authority. This map visualizes how the NCS proposal maintains Rutland's external border while shifting the internal administrative grouping to achieve a more balanced population scale compared to the other two proposals.

Regarding the timeline, here is the roadmap for the decision-making process.

The official window for feedback ends on March 26, 2026.

Following the close of the consultation, the Department for Levelling Up will review the thousands of submissions and evidence pieces provided by the councils and the public.

The Government is expected to announce its preferred structural model by the summer of 2026.

Should a model be approved, the transition period including the necessary legislative work to protect ceremonial statuses and establish the new unitary bodies would occur over the following 18–24 months, with the goal of the new authorities becoming fully operational by 2028.

The primary contention remains whether the "North" grouping can truly protect Rutland’s unique rural identity a question that hinges on whether the government provides binding, legislative protections for ceremonial status, rather than just non-binding, "warm" policy guidance.

Rutland County Council Extends Free Travel on CallConnect Through to March 2027

Rutland County Council Extends Free Travel on CallConnect Through to March 2027

Residents across Rutland can look forward to another year of free, flexible public transport as the County Council confirms it will extend its popular CallConnect service until 31 March 2027. This decision follows the welcome news of a new multi-year Local Authority Bus Grant settlement from the Department for Transport, which was announced earlier this month.

The extension is a significant win for a service that has quickly become a vital piece of the county’s infrastructure. Since its introduction, the CallConnect network a Demand Responsive Transport (DRT) solution has transformed how rural residents travel. In its first year, the service facilitated over 17,000 journeys and brought public transport to 20 villages that previously lacked any form of service. By linking these communities to essential destinations such as GP surgeries, schools, shops, and larger transport hubs, the initiative has played a crucial role in reducing social isolation and expanding economic and social opportunities for residents.

Councillor Christine Wise, Portfolio Holder for Transport, Environment and Communities, expressed her enthusiasm for the decision, noting that the extension will continue to provide flexible and reliable transport at no cost to the user. She emphasised that the service is doing more than just moving people; it is actively supporting local mobility, encouraging greener travel choices, and helping the council meet its environmental goals by reducing transport emissions.

This move is a cornerstone of the Council’s 2024 Bus Service Improvement Plan (BSIP), which remains committed to maintaining a robust hybrid network of CallConnect and traditional bus services. By ensuring that every household in the county retains access to free transport, the Council aims to continue boosting passenger numbers while making it easier for residents to reach workplaces, healthcare facilities, and educational training.

For those looking to take advantage of the service, more information and guidance on how to use the CallConnect network can be found by visiting the official Rutland bus website at www.rutlandbuses.info.

The Final Edition A Changing Chapter for the Rutland Times

The Final Edition A Changing Chapter for the Rutland Times

After nearly five decades as a staple of local life, the Rutland Times will roll off the printing presses for the last time on Thursday, March 19. The announcement marks the end of an era for the physical newspaper, which first began its journey in 1977 as a community free sheet. The title is not disappearing entirely; instead, it is transitioning into a new, consolidated future.

The decision to cease printing follows a trend seen across the regional press, with owners Iliffe Media citing a "double whammy" of shifting reader habits and economic pressure. As more residents move toward consuming news via digital platforms, the rising costs of physical production and distribution have made maintaining two separate local titles unsustainable. In response, a new weekly publication, the Rutland and Stamford Mercury, will launch every Friday. This new title represents a merger of the Rutland Mercury and the Stamford Mercury, promised to carry the "best of" the Rutland Times within its pages.

Reflecting on the paper’s heritage, the Rutland Times was born out of a desire for hyper-local representation. Following its successful launch in the late seventies, it was eventually acquired by Johnson Press, who maintained it as a distinct voice for the county for several years before it passed to Iliffe Media. However, recent years have seen some local pushback, critics noted the paper had become noticeably thinner and often felt dominated by Lincolnshire-based content, mirroring a website that increasingly linked to broader regional articles rather than purely local stories.

Iliffe Media acknowledged the bittersweet nature of the transition but remained optimistic about the path forward. "Very sadly, that will be the last print edition of the Rutland Times," they stated, noting that the move is the "next natural step" in the brand's story. They emphasised that while the delivery method is changing, the journalistic mission is not. Residents can still expect to see reporters and photographers at local events, ensuring that the stories of England’s smallest county continue to be told, even if they now share a masthead with their neighbors in Stamford.

By moving the bulk of its presence online by the end of the month and consolidating its print reach, Iliffe Media hopes to secure the long-term viability of local reporting. As the community prepares to pick up the final copy next Thursday, it marks a moment of reflection on forty-nine years of local history and a look toward a more integrated, digital future for Rutland’s news.