The Jeffrey Hudson Statue From Hudson Cottage to the Museum Garden.

The Jeffrey Hudson Statue From Hudson Cottage to the Museum Garden. The statue of Sir Jeffrey Hudson in Oakham, Rutland, has a storied history. For years, it stood in the private garden of Hudson Cottage. Following the passing of the cottage's final owners, the family generously donated the piece to the town.

To prepare the statue for its new public life, Oakham in Bloom commissioned an artist to "refresh its appearance". It was relocated to the Oakham Castle Museum garden, where it can be viewed by residents and visitors alike.

However, the transformation hasn't been without controversy. The original stonemason who carved the statue, Steve Nicholson, recently reached out after seeing the changes to his work. His reaction was blunt:

"I was a bit gutted, to put it mildly!"

Steve is currently gathering more archival material, including original photographs and press clippings from the statue's initial unveiling, to share shortly.

I wrote about the change in April 2017

https://martinbrookes.blogspot.com/2017/04/sir-jeffrey-hudson-statue-rutland.html

The Stonemasons 

Statue at Rutland County Museum

For more local news, community updates, and what's on in the area, 

visit: Oakham and Rutland News.

Oakham And Rutland What's On Guide

https://oakhamandrutlandnews.co.uk/OakhamandRutlandWhatsOn

Music Bands Live music 2026 Bandstand Cutts Close Oakham Rutland

https://oakhamandrutlandnews.co.uk/summer-2026-music-at-cutts-close-park-oakham-bandstand-rutland

Oakham and Rutland  Sports and Fitness Events News

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UK Town of Culture Oakham Rutland 2028 Bid

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Stay Connected with LGBTQ+ Gay Oakham Rutland News Events Advice and Support

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Road Closures Rutland Highways 

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UNISON Leicestershire Police has issued a stark warning against proposals to expand non-police foot patrols across the region

By The Local Democracy Reporter ldreporter@post.com

UNISON Leicestershire Police has issued a stark warning against proposals to expand non-police foot patrols across the region, claiming that the move risks creating a "two-tier system" of public safety. In a detailed statement released on May 7th, 2026, the union argued that shifting community safety responsibilities toward private or non-warranted staff is a "diluted substitute" for professional neighborhood policing that could leave both the public and workers vulnerable.

The heart of the union’s objection lies in the unique legal and professional framework that governs sworn police officers and Police Community Support Officers (PCSOs). UNISON contends that these roles provide a level of accountability, specialist training in conflict resolution, and legal powers that simply cannot be replicated by private contractors. By moving toward alternative models, the union fears a future where fully trained officers are pulled into reactive work, leaving visible patrols to lower-paid staff who lack the authority to enforce the law or provide adequate safeguarding.

Beyond the impact on community trust, the union expressed serious concerns for the safety of the workers themselves. There is a growing fear that staff in these "quasi-policing" roles may find their responsibilities drifting into dangerous territory, such as dealing with violent confrontation or complex anti-social behavior, without the necessary legal protections or training. UNISON maintains that this shift is not a response to a lack of need for policing, but rather a symptom of services being chronically under-resourced and under pressure.

Ultimately, the union is calling for a halt to these proposals in favour of renewed investment in traditional neighborhood policing teams across Leicester, Leicestershire, and Rutland. They are demanding full consultation with trade unions and an independent evaluation of any pilot schemes before changes are implemented. As the debate over police visibility continues, UNISON’s message remains clear: public safety cannot be outsourced to the lowest bidder, and the communities they serve deserve the "gold standard" of accountable, professional policing.

For more local news, community updates, and what's on in the area, 

visit: Oakham and Rutland News.

Oakham And Rutland What's On Guide

https://oakhamandrutlandnews.co.uk/OakhamandRutlandWhatsOn

Music Bands Live music 2026 Bandstand Cutts Close Oakham Rutland

https://oakhamandrutlandnews.co.uk/summer-2026-music-at-cutts-close-park-oakham-bandstand-rutland

Oakham and Rutland  Sports and Fitness Events News

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UK Town of Culture Oakham Rutland 2028 Bid

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Stay Connected with LGBTQ+ Gay Oakham Rutland News Events Advice and Support

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Road Closures Rutland Highways 

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Choral Splendour in Oakham Peterborough Cathedral Choir to Perform at All Saints

by Martin Brookes

Oakham is preparing for an evening of sublime vocal music as the prestigious Peterborough Cathedral Choir travels to All Saints Church for a special concert on Saturday, 16th May. Beginning at 19:00, the event promises to transport the majestic, centuries-old atmosphere of cathedral worship into the heart of the Rutland community.

The choir, renowned for its precision and emotive power, has curated a "glorious programme" that highlights the rich heritage of British choral music. The evening will feature works by two giants of the genre: Hubert Parry and Michael Tippett. While Parry is beloved for his grand, sweeping melodies and mastery of the English choral form, Tippett’s inclusion brings a profound spiritual depth and a more intricate, modern texture to the performance. Together, these works will utilise the resonant acoustics of All Saints Church to create a truly immersive sonic experience.

In an inspiring move to make world-class music accessible to the next generation of listeners, the organisers have announced that admission for anyone under the age of 18 is entirely free. For adults, general admission tickets are priced at £15, offering a rare opportunity to see a professional cathedral choir in such an intimate regional setting.

Prospective attendees can secure their seats by contacting the music department via email at music@peterborough-cathedral.org.uk  Whether you are a lifelong devotee of the Anglican choral tradition or a newcomer looking for an evening of peaceful reflection, this performance stands as a highlight of the spring cultural calendar.

For more local news, community updates, and what's on in the area, 

visit: Oakham and Rutland News.

Oakham And Rutland What's On Guide

https://oakhamandrutlandnews.co.uk/OakhamandRutlandWhatsOn

Music Bands Live music 2026 Bandstand Cutts Close Oakham Rutland

https://oakhamandrutlandnews.co.uk/summer-2026-music-at-cutts-close-park-oakham-bandstand-rutland

Oakham and Rutland  Sports and Fitness Events News

https://oakhamandrutlandnews.co.uk/rutland-sports-and-fitness

UK Town of Culture Oakham Rutland 2028 Bid

https://oakhamandrutlandnews.co.uk/ukoakhamtownofculture2028

Stay Connected with LGBTQ+ Gay Oakham Rutland News Events Advice and Support

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Road Closures Rutland Highways 

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A New Chapter for Oakham’s Historic Coaching Inn The George Inn Oakham Rutland to Debut Luxury Boutique Cinema

The historic Market Place is buzzing with anticipation as The George Inn prepares to pull back the curtain on its latest evolution. Stepping beyond its reputation as a premier 17th-century coaching inn, the venue has officially confirmed that its highly anticipated luxury boutique cinema is "very close to opening," marking a significant milestone in the hotel’s extensive multi-phase restoration.

The announcement comes as part of a grander vision to return the inn formerly known as the Whipper-In to its original glory under "The George" name. Since the change in ownership in August 2022, the building has undergone a meticulous transformation. While the first phases saw the complete refurbishment of its 20 bedrooms and the revival of the George Bar and Snug, the upcoming cinema experience represents the most unique addition to the hotel’s growing portfolio of amenities.

Designed to offer an intimate and relaxing entertainment experience, the new cinema is not intended to be a standard multiplex. Instead, it aligns with the inn’s "shabby chic" and refined Georgian aesthetic. Nestled within the thick stone walls of the historic property, the boutique space aims to provide guests and locals with a "home-from-home" atmosphere, complete with the high-quality seasonal food and drink that has made the inn’s Dining Room a local staple.

The addition of the cinema is just the beginning of a broader wellness and entertainment push. Plans are already "on the drawing board" for an exclusive spa and gym, signaling The George Inn’s intent to become a full-service destination for both leisure travelers and the Rutland community.

Joining the "A-List"

While the exact screening schedule remains a closely guarded secret, the management is inviting the public to be the first to step inside. By joining the inn's mailing list, film enthusiasts can secure early access to launch dates, special introductory offers, and invitations to exclusive premiere events.

For a town rooted in tradition, the arrival of a permanent, high-end cinema within one of its most iconic buildings represents a bold step forward. It bridges the gap between Oakham’s rich history and the modern demand for curated, experiential hospitality.

To sign up for the mailing list and receive the latest updates on the cinema’s grand opening, visit www.thegeorgeinnoakham.co.uk.

For more local news, community updates, and what's on in the area, 

visit: Oakham and Rutland News.

Oakham And Rutland What's On Guide

https://oakhamandrutlandnews.co.uk/OakhamandRutlandWhatsOn

Music Bands Live music 2026 Bandstand Cutts Close Oakham Rutland

https://oakhamandrutlandnews.co.uk/summer-2026-music-at-cutts-close-park-oakham-bandstand-rutland

Oakham and Rutland  Sports and Fitness Events News

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UK Town of Culture Oakham Rutland 2028 Bid

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Stay Connected with LGBTQ+ Gay Oakham Rutland News Events Advice and Support

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Road Closures Rutland Highways 

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Drive Your Career Forward Rutland Prestige Centre is Hiring in Oakham

Are you a skilled mechanic looking for a workshop where quality matters as much as the commute? Rutland Prestige Centre, a staple of the Oakham automotive scene for years, is officially looking for a Vehicle Technician (and ideally an MOT Tester) to join their close-knit, professional team.

Located on Burley Road, Rutland Prestige has built a reputation for excellence. While they are well-known as the go-to specialists for German engineering think Audi, BMW, Mercedes-Benz, and VW their bays stay busy with a diverse range of all makes and models.

This isn’t just a "bolt-on, bolt-off" assembly line job. As a Technician at Rutland Prestige, you’ll be handling everything from routine diagnostic checks to complex mechanical repairs.

Position: Vehicle Technician (MOT Tester status preferred, but not a dealbreaker).

Specialism: High focus on German marques, alongside general maintenance for all vehicles.

Environment: A friendly, supportive team in a long-established local business.

Commitment: Full-time.

Why Join the Team?

In an industry that can often feel like a revolving door, Rutland Prestige prides itself on stability and a positive working culture.

"We aren't just looking for a set of hands; we’re looking for a professional who takes pride in their craft and wants to work in a respected, local environment."

The Rewards:

Competitive Salary: Pay is based on your age and experience—they value the expertise you bring to the table.

Prime Location: Based in the heart of Oakham (LE15 7AA), perfect for local residents or those looking to work in the beautiful Rutland area.

Variety: One day you might be coding a module on a late-model Porsche; the next, you’re performing a standard service on a family hatchback.

If you have the technical chops and a great attitude, the team wants to hear from you. You can reach out directly via the details below to start the conversation:

Phone: 01572 720 201

Email: info@rutlandprestigecentre.co.uk

Address: Burley Road, Oakham, LE15 7AA

For more local news, community updates, and what's on in the area, 

visit: Oakham and Rutland News.

Oakham And Rutland What's On Guide

https://oakhamandrutlandnews.co.uk/OakhamandRutlandWhatsOn

Music Bands Live music 2026 Bandstand Cutts Close Oakham Rutland

https://oakhamandrutlandnews.co.uk/summer-2026-music-at-cutts-close-park-oakham-bandstand-rutland

Oakham and Rutland  Sports and Fitness Events News

https://oakhamandrutlandnews.co.uk/rutland-sports-and-fitness

UK Town of Culture Oakham Rutland 2028 Bid

https://oakhamandrutlandnews.co.uk/ukoakhamtownofculture2028

Stay Connected with LGBTQ+ Gay Oakham Rutland News Events Advice and Support

https://oakhamandrutlandnews.co.uk/OakhamandRutlandLGBTQ

Road Closures Rutland Highways 

https://oakhamandrutlandnews.co.uk/RutlandTravelUpdates

Discover Oakham

https://oakhamandrutlandnews.co.uk/discoveroakham

Join the Pace Aldi is Hiring Store Assistants in Oakham

Are you looking for a role where the shift flies by and no two days are the same? Aldi, the UK’s fastest-growing retailer, is looking for energetic and reliable Store Assistants to join their team at the Lands End Way branch in Oakham.

Known for its efficiency and "work hard, play hard" culture, Aldi offers more than just a retail job it offers a career path with some of the most competitive pay rates in the sector.

Working at Aldi isn't about standing behind a counter all day. It’s a dynamic, physical role where you are the engine room of the branch. You’ll be part of a team that ensures the shelves are stocked, the products look great, and the customers leave happy.

Key Responsibilities include:

Rapid Stocking: Merchandising products and ensuring high quality across the aisles.

Customer Excellence: Providing fast, friendly service at the tills and on the shop floor.

Operational Agility: Switching between tasks seamlessly to keep the store running like clockwork.

What’s in it for You?

Aldi is famous for rewarding its staff well. With a starting salary of £13.50 per hour (rising to £14.47), it remains one of the best-paying supermarkets in the country.

Financial Growth: Pay rises are linked to your length of service.

Flexibility: Contracts range from 10 to 30 hours per week, making it ideal for balancing other commitments.

Industry-Leading Benefits: 28 days of annual leave, gym discounts, and an exceptional maternity/adoption package (26 weeks full pay after one year of service).

Career Progression: Aldi is a meritocracy; if you work hard, the training and development opportunities to move into management are there for the taking.

Are You the Right Fit?

You don't necessarily need a background in retail to succeed here—Aldi values attitude over everything else. They are looking for:

Reliability: Shifts can start as early as 6:00 AM or finish as late as 10:00 PM, so you'll need a "can-do" spirit and reliable transport.

Energy: You should be comfortable being on your feet and working at a fast pace.

Confidence: A friendly, approachable manner with customers and a steady hand with numbers at the till.

How to Apply

If you’re ready to trade a boring desk job for a fast-paced environment where your hard work is actually noticed, the Oakham team wants to meet you.

Location: Lands End Way, Oakham, LE15 6RB

Contract: Permanent

Apply: Visit the Aldi Recruitment website or click "Apply Now" on the job board to start your journey.  https://careers.aldirecruitment.co.uk/vacancies/14625/store-assistant.html

Top Tip: Before applying, double-check your commute. Ensure you can consistently make those early morning starts or late evening finishes to set yourself up for success.

For more local news, community updates, and what's on in the area, 

visit: Oakham and Rutland News.

Oakham And Rutland What's On Guide

https://oakhamandrutlandnews.co.uk/OakhamandRutlandWhatsOn

Music Bands Live music 2026 Bandstand Cutts Close Oakham Rutland

https://oakhamandrutlandnews.co.uk/summer-2026-music-at-cutts-close-park-oakham-bandstand-rutland

Oakham and Rutland  Sports and Fitness Events News

https://oakhamandrutlandnews.co.uk/rutland-sports-and-fitness

UK Town of Culture Oakham Rutland 2028 Bid

https://oakhamandrutlandnews.co.uk/ukoakhamtownofculture2028

Stay Connected with LGBTQ+ Gay Oakham Rutland News Events Advice and Support

https://oakhamandrutlandnews.co.uk/OakhamandRutlandLGBTQ

Road Closures Rutland Highways 

https://oakhamandrutlandnews.co.uk/RutlandTravelUpdates

Discover Oakham

https://oakhamandrutlandnews.co.uk/discoveroakham

Culinary Opportunities in the Countryside Sacrewell Seeks New Cook for The Farmhouse Table

 For those who believe the best office view includes rolling fields and heritage farming, a unique culinary opportunity has opened up at one of the region’s most beloved visitor attractions. Sacrewell, the historic farm and award-winning heritage site, is currently recruiting a Cook to join the team at its popular on-site café, The Farmhouse Table.

Known for its commitment to fresh, local ingredients and a "field-to-fork" ethos, The Farmhouse Table serves as the social heart of Sacrewell. The café provides a vital service to families exploring the farm, hikers traversing the Cambridgeshire countryside, and local regulars seeking a high-quality brunch or afternoon tea.

The role is designed for a culinary professional who thrives in the energetic environment of a busy kitchen but appreciates the warmth of a supportive, community-focused team. Unlike the high-pressure, late-night grind of city-center restaurants, a position at Sacrewell offers a more balanced approach to hospitality.

Position Details:

Location: The Farmhouse Table @ Sacrewell Farm.

Commitment: Part-time hours, spanning 3 to 5 days per week.

Availability: An immediate start is available for the right candidate, just in time for the bustling summer season.

The ideal candidate will be someone with a genuine love for good food and a desire to contribute to Sacrewell’s mission of connecting people to agriculture and the countryside.

Why Work at Sacrewell?

Working at Sacrewell is about more than just food preparation; it’s about being part of a site managed by the William Scott Abbott Trust. The Trust’s focus on education and heritage means that the café plays a key role in the visitor experience, often featuring seasonal produce that reflects the agricultural cycles of the farm itself.

The Farmhouse Table has built a reputation for its friendly, welcoming atmosphere, making it an ideal environment for a Cook who enjoys a collaborative team spirit.

How to Join the Team

If you’re ready to trade the industrial landscape for the farmhouse kitchen, Sacrewell wants to hear from you. Detailed job specifications and the application portal are available now.

Apply Online: > Head to www.sacrewell.org.uk/about/join-us/ to find out more and submit your interest.

With its 18th-century watermill, rare breed animals, and stunning views over the Nene Valley, Sacrewell offers a workplace unlike any other. Don't miss your chance to be the secret ingredient in their next successful season.

For more local news, community updates, and what's on in the area, 

visit: Oakham and Rutland News.

Oakham And Rutland What's On Guide

https://oakhamandrutlandnews.co.uk/OakhamandRutlandWhatsOn

Music Bands Live music 2026 Bandstand Cutts Close Oakham Rutland

https://oakhamandrutlandnews.co.uk/summer-2026-music-at-cutts-close-park-oakham-bandstand-rutland

Oakham and Rutland  Sports and Fitness Events News

https://oakhamandrutlandnews.co.uk/rutland-sports-and-fitness

UK Town of Culture Oakham Rutland 2028 Bid

https://oakhamandrutlandnews.co.uk/ukoakhamtownofculture2028

Stay Connected with LGBTQ+ Gay Oakham Rutland News Events Advice and Support

https://oakhamandrutlandnews.co.uk/OakhamandRutlandLGBTQ

Road Closures Rutland Highways 

https://oakhamandrutlandnews.co.uk/RutlandTravelUpdates

Discover Oakham

https://oakhamandrutlandnews.co.uk/discoveroakham

Bridging Books and People Rutland Library Seeks New Library Stock & Systems Coordinator

The landscape of local knowledge and community connection is evolving, and Living Well Rutland is looking for a strategic leader to help steer the ship. A vacancy has been announced for a Community Access Library Stock & Systems Coordinator, a pivotal role designed to ensure that Rutland’s literary and digital resources remain both modern and accessible.

This isn't just a role for someone who loves books; it is a high-level position for an experienced and motivated Librarian who understands the complex "back-end" of a 21st-century library service. The successful candidate will oversee the life cycle of information across Rutland’s four main library hubs and its vital outreach programs.

The Stock & Systems Coordinator acts as the engine room of the library service. While the front-facing staff engage with the public, this role ensures that the tools they use—and the collections they offer—are seamless and high-quality.

Key Responsibilities Include:

Collection Development: Leading the strategic management of library stock to ensure it reflects the diverse needs and interests of the Rutland community.

System Oversight: Maintaining the effective operation of the Library Management System (LMS), ensuring that borrowing, searching, and digital access remain user-friendly.

Bibliographic Services: Overseeing the technical data and cataloging that allow residents to find exactly what they need, when they need it.

A Focus on "Living Well"

As part of the Living Well Rutland initiative, this role carries a deeper purpose. Rutland’s libraries are no longer just quiet places for reading; they are essential community hubs that support well-being, reduce isolation, and provide digital inclusion. By managing the stock and systems effectively, the Coordinator directly impacts the quality of life for residents accessing these services.

Are You the Right Chapter?

The team is looking for a professional with a blend of technical expertise and leadership vision. If you have a background in librarianship and a passion for how technology can enhance community access, this is a rare opportunity to take on a senior role within a supportive local government framework.

How to Apply

Applications are currently open for those ready to take the next step in their library career. Candidates are encouraged to review the full job specification to understand the technical requirements of the systems involved.

Submit Your Application: Visit the official portal here: https://ow.ly/5MuV50YNPLZ

With Rutland’s libraries continuing to serve as a cornerstone of local life, this coordinator role is a chance to leave a lasting mark on the county’s intellectual and social heritage.

For more local news, community updates, and what's on in the 

area, visit: Oakham and Rutland News.

Oakham And Rutland What's On Guide

https://oakhamandrutlandnews.co.uk/OakhamandRutlandWhatsOn

Music Bands Live music 2026 Bandstand Cutts Close Oakham Rutland

https://oakhamandrutlandnews.co.uk/summer-2026-music-at-cutts-close-park-oakham-bandstand-rutland

Oakham and Rutland  Sports and Fitness Events News

https://oakhamandrutlandnews.co.uk/rutland-sports-and-fitness

UK Town of Culture Oakham Rutland 2028 Bid

https://oakhamandrutlandnews.co.uk/ukoakhamtownofculture2028

Stay Connected with LGBTQ+ Gay Oakham Rutland News Events Advice and Support

https://oakhamandrutlandnews.co.uk/OakhamandRutlandLGBTQ

Road Closures Rutland Highways 

https://oakhamandrutlandnews.co.uk/RutlandTravelUpdates

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https://oakhamandrutlandnews.co.uk/discoveroakham

Discover Opportunities with

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Job Vacancies Oakham Rutland

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