Oakham Rutland and Rutland News Martin Brookes

Tuesday, June 23, 2026

Local Gem Continues Winning Streak, Wisteria Hotel Honoured Again by Tripadvisor. Tripadvisor® Travellers’ Choice® Awards for 2026.

By Martin Brookes

The Wisteria Hotel has once again cemented its reputation as a premier destination in the heart of Rutland, securing a coveted spot in the Tripadvisor® Travellers’ Choice® Awards for 2026. This latest accolade marks a remarkable milestone for the independently owned hotel, which has now earned the prestigious award for eight consecutive years. The recognition places the Wisteria Hotel firmly within the top 10% of hospitality listings worldwide on the platform.

The Travellers’ Choice Awards are highly regarded in the industry because they are not determined by a panel of judges, but by the people who matter most: the guests. The award is based on genuine, first-hand reviews and ratings submitted to the world’s largest travel guidance platform over a 12-month period. For owners Kristy Carey and Chris Newsham, who have steered the hotel since 2018, the award is a direct reflection of their team's enduring commitment.

"We are absolutely delighted to have received this award once again," said Kristy Carey. "It is a testament to the dedication, passion, and hard work of our incredible team, who go above and beyond every day to create memorable experiences for our guests. Without them, this achievement simply would not be possible."

The hospitality industry has faced a tumultuous few years, navigating significant economic and operational pressures. Despite these challenges, the Wisteria Hotel has managed to maintain the high standards that have made it a favourite among locals and visitors alike. "Our mission has always been for every customer to arrive as a guest and leave as a friend," Carey added. "We are incredibly proud that this is reflected in the outstanding feedback and reviews we receive from those who stay and dine with us."

Matt Dacey, Chief Marketing Officer at Tripadvisor, extended his congratulations to the Oakham establishment, noting that ranking among the top percentage of businesses globally means the hotel has made a truly memorable impact on its visitors.

Since taking the helm, Carey and Newsham have invested heavily in transforming the property while meticulously preserving its historic character. Today, the hotel boasts 25 guest bedrooms, a restaurant and bar open to the public, and versatile event spaces that have become a go-to venue for weddings and corporate gatherings in the county. As the Wisteria Hotel looks toward the remainder of 2026, this latest award serves as a strong endorsement for anyone looking for a top-rated stay in the UK.

Those interested in viewing the latest feedback or booking a stay can find more information on the Wisteria Hotel's official Tripadvisor page.

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

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Oakham and Rutland News

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

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Rutland Marks Start of Armed Forces Week at Oakham Castle, Video

By Local Democracy & Public Affairs Reporter not affiliated to the BBC LDRS

The grounds of the Oakham Castle provided a poignant setting today as the community gathered to mark the official start of Armed Forces Week. The event, organised by Rutland County Council, centered on the ceremonial raising of the Armed Forces flag, a powerful symbol of the counties commitment to supporting those who serve and have served in the military.

The ceremony brought together local dignitaries, residents, and veterans to pay tribute to the dedication and sacrifice of the men and women of the Armed Forces. The sight of the flag being hoisted served as a reminder of the vital connection between the military community and the civilian population of Rutland.

Oakham Mayor, Cllr Martin Brookes, who attended the ceremony to represent the town, expressed his pride in the turnout and the community spirit on display.

"I was very pleased to see so many people mark Armed Forces Week today," said Mayor Martin Brookes. "It is an honor to represent the residents of Oakham at such a meaningful event. It is important that we continue to show our gratitude and support for our service personnel, past and present."

The flag-raising ceremony acts as the curtain-raiser for a week of activities and observances across the country, encouraging the public to engage with the military community and reflect on the contribution made by the Armed Forces to national security and humanitarian efforts.

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

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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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Main event starts at 12.30 there will be a RAF fly-past at 4.00 pm

Monday, June 22, 2026

From Rural Road to Police Custody, The Reality of Drink Driving in Rutland

A quiet shift for local law enforcement can often turn in an instant, shifting from routine patrolling to high-stakes intervention. This was the case recently for PCSO Lauren of the Rutland Police, whose evening took an unexpected turn when a report of a suspected drink driver led to a pursuit across the countryside.

Four hours into her shift, just as the evening seemed to be progressing with unusual calm, the report came in a vehicle had been driven off the road and left abandoned in a field near Glaston. It appears the driver, having realised that agricultural land does not offer the same utility as a road, chose to flee the scene on foot rather than face the consequences of their actions.

What ensued was an energetic foot chase through the rural terrain, which PCSO Lauren humorously described as an "unscheduled fitness session." Despite the suspect's attempt to evade capture by disappearing into the countryside, the officer managed to close the distance and apprehend him. Shortly thereafter, PC 4104 arrived on the scene to provide backup and secure the situation.

The individual was promptly arrested on suspicion of drink driving and transported to custody. While the night began with an off-road excursion through a field, it concluded in a police station cell a stark, unadorned environment that stands in sharp contrast to the landscape the driver had just attempted to navigate.

This incident serves as a sobering reminder of the dangers posed by those who choose to get behind the wheel while under the influence. Beyond the legal ramifications, such as the potential for criminal charges, driving bans, and significant fines, the act of drink driving places innocent members of the public at extreme risk.

For PCSO Lauren, the arrest was merely one chapter of her shift. She remained on duty throughout the night, continuing her patrols across the county to ensure the safety and security of Rutland’s residents. Her presence serves as a testament to the ongoing efforts of the Leicestershire Police to deter reckless behavior on our roads and maintain order within the community. The next time you see local officers out and about in your neighborhood, remember the work they do behind the scenes and, as always, remember that the decision to drink and drive is one that can change lives in an instant.

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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Callconnect Celebrates First Year of Connecting Communities During Better Transport Week

By Local Democracy & Public Affairs Reporter not affiliated to the BBC LDRS

Rutland County Council is marking a significant milestone this week: the first anniversary of the Callconnect demand-responsive bus service. Coinciding with the national Better Transport Week a campaign dedicated to highlighting the power of accessible, sustainable transport—the service has cemented its role as a vital lifeline for residents across the county.

In its inaugural year, Callconnect has successfully carried over 19,300 passengers, proving that flexible, modern transport solutions are essential for rural connectivity.

For many residents living outside the reach of traditional bus routes, accessing employment, education, healthcare, and social opportunities can be a significant hurdle. Callconnect was launched to dismantle these barriers, offering a responsive alternative that adapts to the needs of the community rather than forcing passengers to adhere to rigid, pre-set timetables.

By allowing passengers to book their travel via a user-friendly app or a dedicated telephone booking team, Callconnect ensures that public transport remains an inclusive and viable option for everyone, regardless of where they live in Rutland.

Better Transport Week focuses on how improved connectivity enhances quality of life and supports local economies. Rutland County Council’s initiative perfectly aligns with these goals.

Councillor Oliver Hemsley, Portfolio Holder for Environment and Transport, emphasised the service's impact:

"Better Transport Week is about celebrating the positive impact that transport can have on people's lives, and Callconnect is a fantastic example of that in action here in Rutland... For many people, particularly those living in rural communities, having access to reliable transport can make a real difference to their independence and wellbeing."

To celebrate this successful first year and to continue supporting local residents, Rutland County Council has announced an exciting development: free travel on Callconnect has been extended for another year.

Passengers will be able to continue using the service at no cost until March 2027. This extension is intended to encourage more residents to experience the convenience of demand-responsive transport and to further the council’s commitment to improving connectivity and reducing travel inequality across the county.

Whether you need to get to a medical appointment, head to the shops, or meet up with friends, Callconnect is ready to help you get there.

Book via the App: Download the Callconnect app for a seamless, on-the-go booking experience.
Book by Phone: Contact the dedicated booking team to arrange your journey.

As Better Transport Week draws to a close, the success of Callconnect serves as a powerful reminder that when we prioritise flexible, accessible transport, we foster stronger, more connected, and more independent communities.