Resilience and Results, A Busy Week for Rutland’s Policing Team

Resilience and Results, A Busy Week for Rutland’s Policing Team

The winding lanes and bustling junctions of South Rutland have seen a surge of police activity this week as local officers completed a short but highly productive set of shifts. From the high-stakes pressure of missing person searches to the steady pulse of village patrols, the latest updates from PC McKinnon and PCSO Beth highlight a team deeply embedded in the fabric of the community.

The week began with a cross-border effort as PCSO Beth deployed directly to Beaumont Leys to assist with urgent enquiries surrounding a serious incident. However, the focus quickly shifted back to the heart of the county. In a dedicated display of rural visibility, Beth managed to visit all twenty-nine villages within her beat, visiting most of them multiple times to ensure a consistent police presence. This proactive approach was punctuated by a community surgery in Ketton, where a high turnout of residents provided the team with fresh insights into local concerns and a chance to put faces to names.

Road safety remains a primary concern for the force, particularly on Rutland's high-speed arteries. While patrolling the A606, PCSO Beth encountered an abandoned, broken-down vehicle, prompting a public reminder for motorists to report any hazards that cannot be moved to a safe location. Meanwhile, PC McKinnon utilised onboard ANPR technology at the A47 junction near Morcott to monitor traffic flow. The officer noted that while a visible police presence successfully curtails risk-taking at this notorious junction, there is still significant work to be done to improve long-term safety.

The unpredictability of the job was on full display during a series of emergency call-outs. In one instance, PC McKinnon was involved in a high-priority search of the Rutland Water car parks for a vulnerable missing person. In another, a reported discovery of shotgun cartridges in the River Gwash by Water Lane nearly required a "frogman" intervention. Fortunately, the officer avoided a soaking when the items were identified as spent, inert cartridges.

Beyond emergencies, the team has been diligently working on local "quality of life" issues. Increased patrols in Uppingham have been targeting shoplifting and anti-social behaviour; while the investigation remains active, police confirmed that the individuals involved have already been identified. The week was also defined by moments of roadside assistance, including a midnight recovery of a campervan on the A1 and a dash to Grantham station to ensure a stranded driver could safely return home to Leeds.

As the officers transition to their rest days, the message to the public remains one of vigilance and partnership. Whether attending a minor collision in Little Dalby where safety gear saved a scooter rider from serious harm, or simply chatting with residents on a village green, the Rutland team continues to balance enforcement with community care. Both officers are set to return to their beats this Wednesday, ready to resume their work in our small county.

For More News, Jobs, What's On, Discover Oakham and More Visit: https://oakhamandrutlandnews.co.uk/ 

Oakham Beats the Clock Town of Culture Bid Submitted Against the Odds

Oakham Beats the Clock Town of Culture Bid Submitted Against the Odds

Cllr Prof Jonathan Nicholls Oakham Town Council

In a whirlwind of community spirit and civic duty, Oakham Town Council has officially submitted its application for the prestigious UK Town of Culture title. The bid, which was finalised just as the window for entries was closing, marks a significant milestone for the town, proving that professional results can be achieved even when working under extreme pressure.

The initiative was spearheaded by a dedicated committee led by Cllr John Nichols. Despite being formed significantly later than many rival teams across the country, the group refused to be deterred by the compressed timeline. Instead, they launched into a period of intense activity, balancing the complex administrative requirements of the bid with a robust boots-on-the-ground campaign to ensure the application reflected the true voice of the community.

Financial transparency remained at the heart of the project. In an era where large-scale municipal bids often carry hefty price tags, Oakham’s application was completed with a refreshingly modest impact on the public purse. The total cost to taxpayers was kept under one thousand pounds, a figure that almost exclusively covered the printing of survey leaflets used to gather vital public data. By relying on the grit and volunteerism of the committee members rather than outside consultants, the council demonstrated an admirable commitment to fiscal responsibility.

To capture the town's collective vision, the committee bypassed the digital divide and went straight to the people. They established a physical presence at both the Oakham Market Place and the Gaol Street Farmers Market, engaging directly with residents and visitors. While a few negative voices surfaced on social media, the committee found that these "keyboard critics" were far from representative of the broader mood. On the streets, the atmosphere was one of overwhelming support, with the general public expressing a clear desire to see Oakham’s heritage and arts scene recognised on a national stage.

The successful completion of the bid did not go unnoticed by the wider council. At last Wednesday’s meeting, a fellow councillor took a moment to formally recognise the achievement. One councillor offered a heartfelt thanks to the committee, praising their extraordinary hard work and their ability to navigate a tight schedule to meet the application deadline.

With the paperwork now submitted, the town waits with a sense of quiet pride. Regardless of the final judging outcome, the process has served as a powerful reminder of what a small, focused team can accomplish for Oakham when they are willing to put in the hours and engage with the community they serve.

The council have also said the information obtained from residents will inevitably be useful when dealing with future projects.

UK Town of Culture Oakham Rutland 2028 Bid

For More News, Jobs, What's On, Discover Oakham and More Visit: https://oakhamandrutlandnews.co.uk/ 

Lead the Future, Whissendine Youth Group is Hiring a Youth Leader

Lead the Future, Whissendine Youth Group is Hiring a Youth Leader

Whissendine’s popular Youth Group is more than just a Monday night hang-out; it is a thriving community hub that offers teenagers a safe, free space to socialise, stay active, and learn new skills. To keep this vital service running at its best, the group is now searching for an enthusiastic and reliable Youth Leader to take the helm.

This is a rewarding part-time position designed for someone who is organised, friendly, and truly passionate about supporting young people. As the Youth Leader, you won’t just be supervising; you’ll be shaping the environment where local 11 to 16-year-olds come to thrive.

Key Details:

Hours: 3 hours per week.

Schedule: Every Monday, 4:30 pm – 6:30 pm (Session time) at Whissendine Village Hall, plus one additional hour for prep and admin.

Pay: £15.20 per hour.

You will lead a dedicated team of willing volunteers who assist with every session.

Working with the Whissendine Youth Group offers the chance to make a tangible impact in the heart of the community. You will be operating in a happy, supportive environment that encourages young people to participate in everything from sports and games to yoga and outdoor field trips.

The group is overseen by Rutland First, an organisation committed to safer recruitment. To ensure the highest standards of care, full Safeguarding training will be provided, and a DBS check will be conducted for the successful candidate.

The committee is looking for a leader who can:

Communicate effectively with both young people and adult volunteers.

Organise engaging activities and handle light administrative tasks.

Foster an inclusive atmosphere where every attendee feels welcome.

How to Apply

If you have the skills and the heart to lead this popular local group, the team would love to hear from you. For more information or to request a full job description, please contact:

Contact: Michele Evans (Chair of Whissendine Youth Group)

Email: whissendineyouthgroup@gmail.com

To learn more about the group’s activities and mission, visit their website:

Whissendine Youth Group Official Site

Take the lead and help provide a safe, fun space for Whissendine’s youth

For More News, Jobs, What's On, Discover Oakham and More Visit: https://oakhamandrutlandnews.co.uk/

Root-and-Branch Out is Hiring for Rutland Community Fridges

Root-and-Branch Out is Hiring for Rutland Community Fridges

Are you passionate about sustainability, reducing food waste, and building a stronger local community? Root-and-Branch Out CIC is currently looking for dedicated individuals to join their team as Community Fridge Staff. 

This is a unique opportunity to turn environmental values into direct action across Oakham, Uppingham, and Greetham.

More Than Just a Job

This isn't your typical retail or warehouse role. As a member of the Community Fridge staff, you are the face of a vital local resource. Your primary mission is to manage the "surplus" lifecycle collecting high-quality food from local shops and supermarkets that would otherwise go to landfill and ensuring it reaches the community instead.

Key responsibilities include:

Session Management: Setting up food displays, serving customers, and ensuring the fridge area is clean and welcoming.

Creative Problem Solving: Managing leftover food at the end of a session in the most "creative way possible"—whether that’s liaising with other fridges or finding new avenues for distribution.

Volunteer Leadership: Working alongside and motivating volunteers, fostering a supportive and collaborative environment.

Data & Logistics: Using your own vehicle to collect surplus food and recording data on the total amount of waste saved.

Root-and-Branch Out CIC is a community-focused organisation known for its inclusive and supportive culture. 

They don't just offer a job; they offer a chance to develop professional skills in the non-profit sector.

Competitive Pay: £12.25 per hour (Freelance basis).

Flexible Commitment: The role operates on a rota, typically requiring only 1–2 sessions per month, making it ideal for those balancing other commitments.

Professional Growth: The organization provides induction training, Safeguarding training, and will help you obtain your Level 2 Food Hygiene Certificate.

Impact: You will be at the forefront of Rutland’s sustainability efforts, directly preventing food waste and supporting local residents.

The ideal candidate is a "community builder" at heart. While organisational skills are essential, the team is specifically looking for people who demonstrate patience, compassion, and tolerance. You should be comfortable working with diverse groups of people, including those who may be vulnerable, and have a proactive attitude toward problem-solving.

Requirements:

Access to your own transport (essential for food collections).

A commitment to waste prevention.

Reliable, punctual, and a genuine "team player" spirit.

If you’re ready to help Rutland grow greener and more connected, reach out to the team today.

Contact: Volunteer Co-ordinator Sue Ball

Phone: 07920 841 058

Email: sueball11@gmail.com

For more information on the organization behind the project, visit: Root-and-Branch Out Official Website

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

https://oakhamandrutlandnews.co.uk/