Rutland North Beat Commitment to Consistency in Quarterly Policing Priorities

Rutland North Beat Commitment to Consistency in Quarterly Policing Priorities

Following extensive consultation with the public, the Rutland North Beat team has confirmed that their operational priorities will remain unchanged for the upcoming quarter. By sticking to a proven strategy, PC Bland and PCSO Lyall aim to build on recent successes in tackling burglary, road safety, and rural crime.

The "You Said, We Did" approach continues to guide the team’s efforts, ensuring that police resources are deployed exactly where residents feel they are needed most.

Residential and business security remains at the forefront of the team’s mission. The strategy for the past month has focused on a blend of victim support and proactive deterrence.

Officers have prioritised visiting victims in person. These visits serve a dual purpose: providing emotional reassurance and gathering granular details that help investigators build a clearer picture of local crime patterns.

To deter potential offenders, patrols have been ramped up in rural areas, ensuring a marked police presence is felt in even the most secluded pockets of the beat.

The beat team continues to work alongside specialist forensic and investigative units to ensure every viable lead is pursued to its conclusion.

Road safety remains a critical concern for Rutland residents. The beat team’s approach this month has been both reactive and preventative.

By working with partner agencies, the police are identifying "problem locations" and deploying high-visibility patrols to encourage safer driving habits.

The team has attended several road traffic collisions this month. Beyond immediate scene management, officers have conducted full investigations to ensure that where offences have occurred, robust action is taken.

These combined efforts are designed to minimise the risk of serious injury and improve the overall experience for all motorists using the county’s road network.

Rural crime is a specialist challenge that requires a dedicated response. The Rutland North team continues to work hand-in-hand with the Rural Policing Team to protect farms and isolated properties.

Teams have been conducting "day-and-night" patrols across agricultural land to catch offenders in the act.

Officers are visiting rural residents to provide "target-hardening" advice practical steps to make buildings and machinery harder to steal.

The Rural Policing Team recently hit a significant milestone, having recovered £3 million worth of stolen equipment since their inception. This includes the recent recovery of high-value machinery.

Motorists may have noticed an increase in trailer stops across the road network. These checks are vital for ensuring that transported equipment is legitimate and not stolen property.

The Beat Team emphasises that community vigilance is their greatest asset. Residents are encouraged to:

Report suspicious activity immediately.

Mark all high-value equipment and machinery.

Register property on national databases to increase the chances of recovery if a theft occurs.

PC Bland and PCSO Lyall would like to thank the community for their continued cooperation and feedback, which remains the cornerstone of local policing in Rutland.

For More News, Jobs, What's On, Discover Oakham and More Visit: 

https://oakhamandrutlandnews.co.uk/ 

Uppingham Policing Priorities Beat Team Confirms Focus for Upcoming Quarter

Uppingham Policing Priorities Beat Team Confirms Focus for Upcoming Quarter

Following a period of community consultation and survey feedback, the Uppingham Beat Team PC Melissa and PCSO Wylie has confirmed that local policing priorities will remain unchanged for the next three months.

The decision reflects a commitment to tackling the persistent issues identified by residents, ensuring that police resources are aligned with the community's primary concerns. By maintaining these core focuses, the team aims to build on recent progress and provide a consistent, visible deterrent to crime in the area.

Anti-social behaviour remains a top priority for the Uppingham community. To combat this, the Beat Team will continue to execute high-visibility patrols in known "hotspot" areas.
The Strategy: Officers are working in tandem with partner agencies to offer public reassurance.

A "proactive engagement" policy is in place. While officers often provide advice to prevent minor issues from escalating, they have made it clear that robust action will be taken when behaviour crosses the line into illegality or significant public distress.

The fight against drug-related crime in Uppingham is currently centered on intelligence gathering. The police are focused on mapping out the networks of those involved to ensure resources are used effectively.

By identifying the "right places and times" for deployment, the team aims to disrupt dealing operations before they take root.

Information from the public is vital here. The team is calling for continued swift sharing of information to help them bring offenders to justice.

Road safety continues to be a point of significant concern for residents. As part of a dedicated local road safety operation, motorists can expect a heightened police presence on Uppingham's roads.

Residents will see marked vehicle patrols and the frequent use of speed laser devices.
Strategic Partnerships: The team is collaborating with the Road Safety Partnership, which includes the deployment of mobile camera vans in key concern areas.

Speeding offenders will be dealt with "robustly" to ensure the safety of pedestrians and other road users.

Transparency is a key part of the Beat Team's strategy. Residents are encouraged to monitor enforcement results and updates via Neighbourhood Link, where the team regularly shares the outcomes of their operations.

View Enforcement Results: leicspolice.link/0W0rT

PC Melissa and PCSO Wylie emphasise that while these priorities have been set, the dialogue remains open. 

Community members are encouraged to keep reporting incidents as they occur to ensure the police have the most accurate picture of life in Uppingham.

"Together, we can keep Uppingham safe."

For More News, Jobs, What's On, Discover Oakham and More Visit: 

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Strengthening Community Safety Rutland South Policing Priorities for 2026

Strengthening Community Safety Rutland South Policing Priorities for 2026

The Leicestershire Police have released their latest community update for March 2026, outlining a strategic shift in focus designed to address the evolving concerns of Rutland South residents. Following extensive community consultations and analysis of local crime patterns, the force is transitioning into the summer months with a refreshed set of priorities aimed at protecting both rural livelihoods and residential peace.

At the heart of the new quarterly assessment is a commitment to road safety, which remains a top priority for the county. Residents have expressed significant concern regarding speeding vehicles, particularly along the A47 corridor and its connecting routes. In response, the policing team is deploying frequent overt patrols using marked vehicles and handheld speed monitoring equipment. Beyond enforcement, the force is collaborating with safety partners to identify high-risk junctions and provide public education via social media to encourage responsible driving.

The most notable shift in this quarter’s strategy is the elevation of Rural Crime as a primary focus, replacing general anti-social behavior. This change addresses the serious impact of theft involving agricultural machinery, livestock offenses, and wildlife crime. To combat this, the Rural Policing Team is working to "target harden" vulnerable commercial farming locations and increase intelligence-led patrols across South Rutland. Simultaneously, the priority of "Vehicle Crime" has been broadened to Theft as a whole, allowing officers to address a wider spectrum of criminality while maintaining a robust stance against those targeting vehicles and their contents.

While Rutland remains an inherently safe area, police have noted a specific increase in the theft of fuel and commercial equipment from isolated sites. Recent incidents include diesel theft in Barrowden and Tickencote, the theft of plant equipment in Tinwell, and a dwelling burglary in Ketton. Officers advise that many of these crimes are avoidable; they urge rural businesses to park equipment behind obstacles to make them less attractive to thieves and recommend the use of PIR floodlights and CCTV systems. For residents, simple measures such as double-checking car locks and keeping house keys in non-obvious locations can significantly deter opportunistic criminals.

The police continue to urge residents to sign up for Neighbourhood Link, a free messaging service that provides direct updates and allows citizens to shape local policing through surveys. Engaging with the community remains a cornerstone of their approach, as evidenced by several upcoming "Beat Surgery" events where residents can meet their local team.

Dates for Your Diary:

Saturday 11/04: Ketton Parish Council, 3:00 PM – 4:00 PM 

Thursday 16/04: Barrowden Parish Council patch walk, 2:30 PM – 3:30 PM 

Saturday 25/04: Edith Weston Village shop, 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM 

For direct inquiries, the community can contact PC Edd McKinnon or PCSO Elizabeth Wynn-Jones via their official Leicestershire Police email addresses.

For More News, Jobs, What's On, Discover Oakham and More Visit: 

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Oakham Community Urges Swift Action on Traffic Calming Following Tragic Fatality

Oakham Community Urges Swift Action on Traffic Calming Following Tragic Fatality

Oakham Community Urges Swift Action on Traffic Calming Following Tragic Fatality

The market town of Oakham is mourning following the recent tragic death of a woman struck by a van in the town centre. While the official cause of the accident has not yet been released by authorities, the incident has sparked an urgent and unified call from both residents and town councillors for a comprehensive overhaul of local road safety measures.

The movement for change has seen several councillors step forward with specific proposals to prevent future tragedies. Cllr Chris Clark was the first member to call for action earlier this week, asserting that the council should "go all out to reduce the speed in the town centre to 20 mph." This sentiment was bolstered by Cllr Paul Ainsley, who also called for a reduction to a 20 mph limit. The proposed safety zone could encompass the central area bounded by South Street, Station Road, Burley Road, and the Level Crossing. Expressing the somber mood of the community, Cllr Jonathan Nicolls remarked, "This is tragic. My heart goes out to her family."

The calls for reform have found strong support from Cllr Martin Brookes, who described the news as "very sad" and offered his full backing for the 20 mph proposal. However, Cllr Brookes suggested that the scope of the safety measures should be expanded even further. "Residents have been calling for action on this issue for quite some time, and given recent events, it feels more urgent than ever," he stated. He specifically highlighted Catmos Street and the Stamford Road roundabout as areas of significant concern, noting that he has witnessed numerous accidents involving speeding cars losing control in those locations. "It honestly feels like a miracle that we haven't seen a serious injury there yet," he added.

The conversation has also highlighted a troubling history of vehicular property damage in the town. Cllr Brookes pointed to the recent destruction of the new pelican crossing lights outside Oakham Wines and reminded the community of previous incidents where vehicles collided with buildings, including Oakham Wines and Knights of Oakham on two separate occasions. "Speeding in our town is unfortunately not a new phenomenon," Cllr Brookes observed, "and while we don't yet know the specific circumstances of last week’s tragic incident, the pattern of behaviour on our roads is clear."

Further complicating the safety landscape are the recent updates to the Highway Code regarding pedestrian right-of-way. Cllr Brookes noted that while these rules were intended to improve safety, they have created a "dangerous mix" when combined with existing speeding issues. He reported seeing pedestrians stepping into the road at road junctions without looking, assuming vehicles can stop instantly.

To address these multifaceted issues, Cllr Brookes has proposed a comprehensive traffic calming strategy funded by Community Infrastructure Levy (CIL) money. Rather than "wasting" the funds on Victoria Hall, he suggested investing in functional and aesthetic improvements. This vision includes implementing attractive traffic calming measures such as extra planters with trees, painting street lights, and replacing town bins. "I believe a comprehensive traffic calming strategy is the only way to protect our residents and our town's historic storefronts," Cllr Brookes concluded.

For More News, Jobs, What's On, Discover Oakham and More Visit: 

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The End of an Era Rutland Farm Park Announces Permanent Closure

The End of an Era Rutland Farm Park Announces Permanent Closure

A cherished piece of the local landscape is preparing to close its gates for the final time. The Ball family, owners of the beloved Rutland Farm Park, announced this week that the attraction will permanently close on Sunday, April 12, 2026, at 5:00 PM.

The announcement, titled "Closing Our Gates," marks the end of a decade-long chapter that saw the farm transformed into a cornerstone of the community. For owners Julie and Clive Ball, the decision stems from a desire to retire, though they admit the choice was weighed down by "great sadness."

Since reopening nearly ten years ago, Rutland Farm Park has served as more than just a tourist attraction. It has been a site of firsts, the first time a child held a chick, the first time a student learned the ropes of animal husbandry, and a sanctuary for families seeking fresh air during the challenges of the last decade.

"The farm has been at the heart of our family for generations," the Ball family shared in a  statement. "Reopening its gates nearly ten years ago was one of the proudest chapters of our lives. We have laughed together, weathered two lockdowns side by side, and shared so many moments we will carry with us always."

The family extended deep gratitude to their staff, volunteers, and the local residents who embraced the farm as their own.

While the news is somber, the family is determined to go out on a high note. They are inviting the public to visit one last time during the Easter season to celebrate the farm’s history and say goodbye to its residents.

Visitors attending before the April 12 deadline can still enjoy:

Including the chance to meet Dandelion the calf.

The arrival of adorable spring lambs.

Access to the woodland walks, play areas, and the farm trail.

The popular Lamb Feeding experiences are still available but must be booked online in advance.

The community is encouraged to stop by the farm cafe and shop to pick up final mementos and treats before the doors close.

Closing Sunday, April 12, 2026 (5:00 PM)

Bookings: rutlandfarmpark.co.uk/events

As the sun sets on Rutland Farm Park this April, it leaves behind a legacy of muddy boots, smiling faces, and a decade of rural magic that Oakham won’t soon forget.

For More News, Jobs, What's On, Discover Oakham and More Visit: 

https://oakhamandrutlandnews.co.uk/ 

Full Steam Ahead Easter Weekend at Rocks By Rail

Full Steam Ahead Easter Weekend at Rocks By Rail

Rocks by Rail 2016

Looking for a bank holiday plan that combines local history with family adventure? Rocks By Rail in Cottesmore is opening its gates for an action-packed Easter weekend on Sunday, 5 April and Monday, 6 April 2026.

From 10:00 to 16:00, the museum will transform into a hub of activity, offering a unique glimpse into the ironstone quarrying heritage that once defined the Rutland landscape.

Easter Sunday: Family Fun & Egg Hunts
Admission: £25 for a family ticket (2 adults, 3 children)

The weekend kicks off with a focus on the younger explorers. Alongside the museum's regular exhibits, Sunday features:

The Easter Egg Hunt: A challenge for the kids to spot hidden treats across the site.

The Rutlander Train: Unlimited brake van rides are included in your admission price, allowing you to experience the sights and sounds of a working industrial railway firsthand.

Easter Monday: Heavy Machinery in Motion

Admission: £30 for a family ticket (2 adults, 3 children)

For those who love the roar of an engine, Monday is the day to visit. The museum steps up the pace with live demonstrations:

Quarry Excavator in Action: Watch as the massive quarry machinery roars to life, simulating the grueling work of extracting ironstone.

Shunting Demonstrations: Quarry trains will be active throughout the day, showing the precision and power required to move heavy loads in a working pit.

Fuel Up at the Sundew Café

No trip to Rocks By Rail is complete without a stop at the Museum’s Sundew Café. Open on both days, the café will be serving:

Hot and cold drinks to keep you refreshed.

A variety of snacks.

The Famous Bacon Cob: A local favorite that is reportedly as "tasty" as it is "popular."

Located at Ashwell Road, Cottesmore (LE15 7FF), Rocks By Rail offers an affordable and educational day out for all ages.

Pro Tip: To get the latest updates or view the full schedule of locomotive timings, search for "Rocks By Rail" on Facebook or visit their official website before you head out.

Whether you're there for the steam, the history, or just a really good bacon cob, it’s set to be a highlight of the Rutland Easter calendar.

For More News, Jobs, What's On, Discover Oakham and More Visit: 

https://oakhamandrutlandnews.co.uk/ 

Moment of Reflection Oakham Prepares for the 2026 Walk of Witness

Moment of Reflection Oakham Prepares for the 2026 Walk of Witness

On Friday, 3 April 2026, the streets of Oakham will fall into a respectful hush as the community gathers for the annual Walk of Witness. This solemn yet powerful Good Friday tradition brings together residents and visitors alike to commemorate the central events of the Christian calendar in a public display of faith and unity.

The event is designed to be accessible to all, winding through the town. Participants will follow a carefully planned route:

10:30 AM: Departure

The procession begins at the Chapel of St John & St Anne’s at Westgate. This historic setting provides a poignant backdrop for the start of the journey.

The High Street Walk

The group will move steadily along Oakham High Street. It is a striking sight for shoppers and passers-by, offering a moment of quiet contemplation amidst the usual Friday bustle.

11:00 AM: The Service

The walk concludes at the Oakham Buttercross in the Market Place. Here, a short, open-air service will be held, featuring prayers and reflections suitable for the occasion.

A Community Invitation

The Walk of Witness is not restricted to any single congregation; the organisers have extended a warm "all welcome" invitation to the entire community. Whether you are a regular churchgoer or simply wish to participate in a long-standing local tradition, your presence is valued.

Date: Friday, 3 April 2026

Time: 10:30 AM – 11:30 AM

Starting Point: Chapel of St John & St Anne, Westgate

Ending Point: Oakham Buttercross, LE15 6DT

In a fast-paced world, the Walk of Witness serves as a "pause button" for the town. By taking the service out of the pews and onto the pavement, the event encourages a sense of shared community identity. It is a time for Oakham to reflect on themes of sacrifice, hope, and togetherness before the celebratory weekend of Easter begins.

For More News, Jobs, What's On, Discover Oakham and More Visit: 

https://oakhamandrutlandnews.co.uk/ 

A United Front The Battle Against Litter on the A1, In a display of cross-border cooperation, Rutland County Council and South Kesteven District Council

A United Front The Battle Against Litter on the A1, In a display of cross-border cooperation, Rutland County Council and South Kesteven District Council

A United Front The Battle Against Litter on the A1

The stretch of the A1 running through the East Midlands is more than just a high-speed artery for the UK it has become a frontline in a difficult battle against roadside waste. 

In a display of cross-border cooperation, Rutland County Council and South Kesteven District Council have joined forces to tackle a problem that is as dangerous as it is unsightly.

The scale of the issue is staggering. 

During a single day of collaborative action last month, crews successfully cleared over 2,100 kilograms of rubbish from the A1 within the Rutland borders alone.

To combat the persistent littering, Rutland County Council invested in 25 new bin houses last year. These units were strategically placed in laybys along the Great North Road to encourage responsible disposal. However, maintaining this infrastructure has proven difficult.

Despite their sturdy design, several bins have already been clipped or crushed by heavy goods vehicles (HGVs) maneuvering in tight laybys.

Collecting litter on a major dual carriageway is a high-risk operation. Fast-moving traffic and narrow verges make manual clearing a specialised task.

The new leader of Rutland County Council, Councillor Christine Wise, highlighted the importance of this partnership. Drawing on her experience as the former portfolio holder for transport, environment, and communities, Wise acknowledged that Rutland simply cannot face this "difficult and dangerous" problem alone.

"We are working collaboratively with South Kesteven. They have a particular crew that are specialists in it because it is dangerous to go out on a high-speed road collecting litter." 

The specialised crews from South Kesteven provide the expertise necessary to operate safely in high-speed environments, ensuring that the cleanup doesn't result in accidents or injuries.

A recurring frustration for local officials is the source of the waste. Councillor Wise noted that it is highly unlikely that Rutland residents are the primary culprits. Instead, the bulk of the litter stems from transient motorists passing through the county.

The council’s message is simple: stop throwing litter out of windows. While the authorities are committed to keeping the roads clean, the ultimate solution lies in a change of behavior from the thousands of drivers who use the A1 daily. Until then, the partnership between Rutland and South Kesteven remains a vital lifeline for the local environment.

For More News, Jobs, What's On, Discover Oakham and More Visit: 

https://oakhamandrutlandnews.co.uk/ 

Uppingham Faces ‘Crunch Meeting’ Over Town Hall and Allotment Future

Uppingham Faces ‘Crunch Meeting’ Over Town Hall and Allotment Future

Uppingham Faces ‘Crunch Meeting’ Over Town Hall and Allotment Future

By Your Local Democracy Reporter

The future of Uppingham’s civic heart and its green spaces will take center stage at it's town council meeting to be held on 1st April, as the Town Council meets for a high-stakes April session.

At the top of the agenda for the meeting at the Town Hall is a significant decision regarding the building itself. Councillors are set to debate a recommendation to bolster the Town Hall’s earmarked reserves by £10,000 specifically for urgent roof repairs. This follows recent investments in the facility, including a £1,200 package for new chairs and tables to improve the venue's appeal for community events.

The meeting comes amid growing public interest in the town’s outdoor assets. A new Allotment Working Group, spearheaded by Councillors Edwards and Kneale-Buxton, has been established to oversee a £5,000 project aimed at revitalising local plots.

However, tension remains over the "green space to the south of Arris Close." While residents have been eager for the results of a recent public consultation, the Chairman has indicated that formal discussion on the feedback will not take place until the June meeting.

Financial transparency is a recurring theme as the council enters the new fiscal year. The authority has confirmed a precept demand of £211,148 for 2026/27. While inflation and maintenance costs including £12,000 for keyholding and upkeep have driven spending up, the council highlighted £3,000 in office savings through newly negotiated contracts.

One notable "one-off" expenditure discussed in recent weeks is a financial grant to support the local Post Office, a move seen as vital to maintaining the town's retail sustainability.

Britain in Bloom: Uppingham is set to celebrate its horticultural success with £1,500 allocated for new town signs boasting its "Britain in Bloom" winner status.

Maker’s Market: Final preparations are underway for the Spring Maker’s Market on Sunday, 12th April. The event is expected to draw hundreds to the Town Hall to support local artisans.

Council Vacancies: The town is currently navigating a period of political transition, with a Notice of Vacancy posted for April and a co-option process beginning to fill empty seats on the council.

Meeting Details:

Where: Council Chamber, Uppingham Town Hall

When: Wednesday, 1st April 2026, 7:00 pm

Public Participation: Residents are invited to attend and raise questions during the democratic half-hour at the start of the meeting.

Does the proposed increase in the Town Hall roof reserve feel like a necessary investment to you, or should the funds be prioritised elsewhere in the community?

For More News, Jobs, What's On, Discover Oakham and More Visit: 
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