Traffic Lights 4/6/2026 - 5/6/2026 GW Tree Care
(tree surgery) Essendine Road / Turnpike Road
(A6121) 2 way signals Day
(9am to 3pm)
Welcome to the Oakham and Rutland News The latest updates from the vibrant heart of Oakham and Rutland. Our new local news website is your go-to source for comprehensive coverage of everything happening in our community. From breaking news and local events to community spotlights and personal reflections, we've got you covered.
Traffic Lights 4/6/2026 - 5/6/2026 GW Tree Care
(tree surgery) Essendine Road / Turnpike Road
(A6121) 2 way signals Day
(9am to 3pm)
If you love our local area and always find yourself snapping photos of your surroundings, a new community initiative is offering the perfect opportunity to showcase your talent. Rutland & Stamford Sound has officially launched its Local Lens Photography Competition. Organised in partnership with and proudly sponsored by Pixel + Paper, the contest celebrates the unique charm of the region while giving local residents of all ages a chance to see their work published.
The core theme of the competition is simply Rutland & Stamford. To qualify, submissions must feature a location, landmark, or subject found directly within the local area. Whether it is a sunset over Rutland Water, the historic stone architecture of Stamford, or a quiet moment in a village community, the organisers are looking for images that reflect what makes this corner of the world so special to the people who live here.
The competition is structured to give everyone a fair chance, dividing entries into three distinct age brackets based on the upcoming academic year. The Adult category, which also includes sixth-form and college students, will see ten winning photographs selected. The youth categories will highlight the region's younger talent, with two winners chosen from secondary schools and another two from primary schools. Organizers note that students who have just finished Year 6 should enter the secondary category, while Year 11 leavers should submit their work under the adult section.
In total, fourteen winning images will be selected to form the official Rutland & Stamford Calendar 2027. Beyond securing a spot in the calendar, the winning photographers will receive full photo credits within the publication, a physical copy of the finished calendar, and an official commendation certificate. Furthermore, the winning shots will be prominently featured in the upcoming Local Lens Exhibition, offering valuable public exposure for the photographers' work.
Submissions are currently open to all amateur and aspiring photographers in the community.
Click here to enter now using the submission form and then email your photo to
locallensphotographycomp@gmail.com
https://www.rutlandandstamfordsound.co.uk/community/local-lens-photography-competition-2026/
In an unprecedented turn of events, Oakham Town Council has officially closed its doors and postponed all upcoming public meetings until further notice.
The abrupt shutdown, announced via a public notice on Wednesday, 3rd June 2026, reveals that the local authority is currently facing a total absence of its workforce, leaving it legally and operationally paralysed.
According to the statement issued by the Chairman of the council, the standard business of the council has ground to a complete halt because it currently lacks any available staff. Crucially, the absence extends to the Proper Officer and the Responsible Financial Officer. Without these key statutory figures, a local parish or town council cannot legally function, authorise financial expenditures, or hold valid public meetings, forcing the current blanket suspension of services.
While the Town Council is temporarily unable to respond to standard administrative queries or manage local affairs, governance in the area has not disappeared entirely. Residents who are facing urgent municipal matters, public service disruptions, or local issues are being directed to Rutland County Council, the principal authority for the region. The county council remains fully operational and can be reached directly by phone at 01572 722577 or online through their official website at www.rutland.gov.uk.
Town Council officials have assured the community that they are working to resolve the staffing crisis as swiftly as possible, though no definitive timeline has been given for a return to regular service. Officials have asked the public for patience and understanding during the interim. In the meantime, residents are advised to monitor physical town noticeboards and the official Oakham Town Council website, where updates regarding the reopening of the offices and the rescheduling of meetings will be published as soon as they become available.
Beer lovers and community spirits, rejoice! The Rutland branch of the Campaign for Real Ale (CAMRA) has officially confirmed the dates for its highly anticipated 13th Annual Beer Festival.
Once again, the historic Rutland County Museum will open its doors for a weekend-long celebration of excellent local brews, fantastic food, and vibrant community energy.
Mark your calendars and gather your friends. The three-day festival kicks off at the end of June:
Dates: Friday 26th June to Sunday 28th June
Location: Rutland County Museum, Oakham
Admission: Free for CAMRA members | £2 for non-members
This year’s event promises an exceptional lineup curated to satisfy every palate. Whether you are a dedicated hop-head or prefer something sweet and crisp, the selection has you covered:
The Main Event: Over 40+ cask and keg beers, highlighting the very best of local and regional brewing craftsmanship.
Cider & Perries: A dedicated selection of 10 distinct ciders and perries for those who prefer the fruitier side of fermentation.
Alternative Tiples: Not a beer drinker? No problem. The festival features a fully stocked gin bar alongside crisp, sparkling wine.
Food: A delicious array of both hot and cold food will be available throughout the weekend to keep you fueled.
A great festival is about more than just what’s in your glass; it’s about the atmosphere. This year, the Rutland County Museum will come alive with entertainment for all three days:
Live Music: Local acts will perform every single day, providing the perfect acoustic backdrop to your pint.
Sunday Dance Festival: Sunday brings an extra layer of celebration with a dedicated dance festival, making it the perfect weekend finale for families and visitors alike.
Can’t wait until the weekend to start celebrating? You don’t have to. In the buildup to the main event—and running right through the festival weekend CAMRA has organised the Oakham Ale Trail.
The trail is designed to showcase the absolute best pubs Oakham has to offer. It’s the perfect excuse to explore the town, support local publicans, and sample brilliant beers ahead of the festival's official opening.
Whether you’re a lifelong CAMRA member or just looking for a fantastic weekend out with great food and music, the 13th Rutland Beer Festival is the place to be this June.
Planning to attend? Don't forget your CAMRA membership card at the door for free entry!
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