A Feast for the Senses Rutland Food Festival Returns This Sunday to Oakham Rutland

A Feast for the Senses Rutland Food Festival Returns to Oakham

Oakham is preparing for a culinary transformation this Sunday, 22nd March, as the highly anticipated Rutland Food Festival officially arrives. From 11am to 4pm, Oakham Castle, the Market Place, and the Wisteria Hotel will become a vibrant hub for food lovers, families, and local artisans alike.

Organised by Carolyn Acton Events, the festival has become a staple of the local calendar, celebrating the very best of the "County of Good Taste." Visitors can expect a diverse tapestry of stalls offering everything from artisanal cheeses and small-batch spirits to global street food and handcrafted treats. Whether you are a dedicated foodie looking for the next great ingredient or a casual visitor hoping for a delicious lunch in the fresh air, the variety on offer promises something to satisfy every palate.

To accommodate the sheer scale of the event and ensure a safe, pedestrian-friendly environment for the crowds, several road closures will be in place throughout the day. Drivers should note that the areas surrounding the Market Place and the approach to the Castle will be restricted to vehicle traffic. However, the short detour is a small price to pay for the chance to wander freely through the open-air market, which is expected to draw a record number of attendees from across the region.

As the final gazebos are weighted down and the local producers prepare their displays, all eyes are currently on the horizon. There is a collective hope among organisers and traders that the weather will be fine; a bright, crisp spring day would be the perfect accompaniment to the outdoor festivities. A bit of sunshine will undoubtedly encourage the many anticipated visitors to linger longer, soak up the live music, and enjoy the community atmosphere that makes this festival so special.

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

https://oakhamandrutlandnews.co.uk/

Petition Calls for Stamford–Rutland Boundary Review Amid Council Shake-Up

Petition Calls for Stamford–Rutland Boundary Review Amid Council Shake-Up

A1 Stamford

A new petition is calling for a review of the boundary between Stamford and Rutland as part of wider plans to reorganise local government across England.

The campaign has been launched by Richard Cleaver, a Lincolnshire County Councillor for Stamford West and cabinet member at South Kesteven District Council. The petition is set to be submitted to Steve Reed, Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government.

At the centre of the proposal is the argument that Stamford’s urban area already extends across the county boundary into Rutland, and that some surrounding Rutland villages have strong ties to the town. Supporters say residents in these areas rely on Stamford for services such as healthcare, leisure facilities, markets, libraries and transport links.

The petition calls for the government to initiate a formal boundary review, potentially bringing areas of Rutland east of the A1 into the same future unitary authority as Stamford. It also suggests that neighbouring parishes west of the A1 could be included if there is local support.

The issue has emerged during a period of significant structural change, as councils across England prepare for the replacement of district and county authorities with larger unitary councils. Proposals submitted to central government have largely followed existing county lines, making cross-border changes more difficult to include at this stage.

Earlier this year, South Kesteven District Council explored the possibility of forming a joint authority with Rutland County Council and neighbouring districts. However, differing approaches led to separate submissions, with Rutland instead backing plans linked to Leicestershire authorities.

Supporters of the petition argue that aligning boundaries with how people actually use services would improve efficiency and local accountability. They also suggest it could strengthen the case for expanded healthcare provision at Stamford Hospital and make planning for roads such as the A1 more coherent.

However, the proposal is not without potential challenges. Rutland has a strong historic identity, and some residents may prefer to remain aligned with existing or proposed structures. Boundary changes can also involve administrative and legal complexities, even where the geographical shift is relatively small.

The petition further argues that any changes would be limited in scope and would not require major transfers of infrastructure such as emergency service facilities. It also suggests that services such as policing, fire coverage and NHS provision could be adjusted alongside any boundary revision to improve coordination.

A decision on whether to pursue a review would ultimately rest with central government and could involve an independent boundary commission and further public consultation.

Residents interested in the proposal or wishing to support it can view and sign the petition online at:

https://www.change.org/p/review-the-stamford-rutland-boundary-as-part-of-local-government-reorganisation

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

https://oakhamandrutlandnews.co.uk/

Birth Services to Relocate from Melton’s St Mary’s to Leicester General Hospital

Birth Services to Relocate from Melton’s St Mary’s to Leicester General Hospital

The Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland Integrated Care Board (LLR ICB) has officially approved the relocation of birthing services from St Mary’s Birth Centre in Melton Mowbray to the midwife-led unit at Leicester General Hospital (LGH). The decision, announced today, formally implements a strategy first outlined in the 2021 "Building Better Hospitals for the Future" consultation, ending a period of uncertainty for maternity provision in the region.

The move follows a comprehensive analysis of safety, staffing, and clinical activity. While St Mary’s has long been valued by the local community for its calm environment and high-quality postnatal support, the unit has seen a significant decline in birth numbers over several years. Data shows the centre averaged only one to two births per week, a figure that falls short of national guidance requiring consistent activity to maintain the clinical skills of midwifery teams.

Clinical safety was cited as the primary driver for the change. Maintaining a 24-hour service at a standalone unit with such low activity created immense pressure on the workforce, often requiring high levels of temporary cover. Furthermore, the financial sustainability of the model had become increasingly difficult to justify; by the 2024/25 period, the cost per birth at St Mary’s had risen to £11,928—more than double the average cost of a midwife-led birth at other University Hospitals of Leicester (UHL) sites.

Despite the relocation of the birthing suites, the ICB confirmed that essential maternity support will remain within the Melton Mowbray community. Local families will continue to have access to antenatal and postnatal clinics, home visiting services, and infant-feeding support. Expectant parents in the area will still be able to choose between the midwife-led units at Leicester General Hospital and Leicester Royal Infirmary, consultant-led care, or the Home Birth Team for those preferring to deliver at home.

The decision-making process incorporated feedback from more than 200 people, including families and staff affected by the temporary pause of services introduced in July 2025. While many shared their appreciation for the unique atmosphere at St Mary’s, they also voiced concerns regarding travel distances and the emotional impact of the closure. The ICB has shared these insights with UHL to help shape ongoing improvements to the wider maternity service.

While the original 2021 plan included the construction of a brand-new standalone unit at Leicester General Hospital, delays in national capital funding mean the service will initially transition into existing facilities at the LGH site. The ICB and UHL have pledged to work closely together to ensure a managed transition, prioritizing clear communication with families and providing dedicated support for the staff moving into new roles.

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

https://oakhamandrutlandnews.co.uk/

Shape the Future of Your Town Uppingham Seeking New Parish Councillor

Shape the Future of Your Town Uppingham Seeking New Parish Councillor

Uppingham Town Council has officially announced a vacancy for a Parish Councillor and is inviting passionate local residents to step forward and represent their community. This co-option opportunity offers a unique platform for individuals to have a direct say in local decision-making and contribute to the ongoing development of Uppingham.

Serving as a Parish Councillor is an impactful way to get involved in the heart of the community. From managing local amenities and green spaces to commenting on planning applications and supporting community initiatives, councillors play a vital role in ensuring Uppingham remains a vibrant and well-managed town. It is an ideal role for those who are driven to make a tangible difference and want to advocate for the needs of their neighbours.

To be eligible for the role, applicants must be at least 18 years old and meet at least one of the following criteria:

Be a registered elector in the parish.

Have lived in or near the parish (within three miles) for the last 12 months.

Have had their main place of work in the parish for the last 12 months.

Have owned property or land in the parish for the last 12 months.

How to Apply

The Council is looking for enthusiastic individuals who can bring fresh perspectives to the table. Interested residents are asked to submit a short statement outlining their background and their motivations for wanting to join the council.

Applications and inquiries should be directed to the Town Clerk, Adam Lowe:

Email: townclerk@uppinghamtowncouncil.co.uk

Telephone: 01572 822681

The closing date for applications is 30th April 2026.

If you have ever felt that you have ideas to improve the town or simply want to ensure that Uppingham continues to thrive, this is your chance to step up and serve your community.

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

https://oakhamandrutlandnews.co.uk/