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Thursday, July 09, 2026

Remembering Peter Ind A Dedicated Public Servant of Rutland and Former Mayor of Uppingham and former Deputy Mayor of Oakham

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

Former Oakham Mayor Adam Lowe (Left) 
Former Deputy Mayor Peter Ind (Right)

The community of Rutland is mourning the loss of a devoted public servant and a much-loved family man. Peter Ind of Oakham, formerly of Uppingham, passed away peacefully on 28th May 2026.

Peter was a familiar and respected figure in local government, having dedicated many years to serving the people of Rutland. His contributions were marked by his commitment to his constituents, both at the county and town levels.

He served as a Rutland County Councillor and held the prestigious position of Chairman of Rutland County Council. Beyond his county-wide responsibilities, Peter was also a dedicated member of the Oakham Town Council, where he played an active role in local decision-making and community representation. Peter Ind was the Deputy Mayor of Oakham 2017/2018

While he was formerly of Uppingham and held strong ties to the town. 

He was a Rutland County Council ward member for Uppingham

Known as a beloved husband to his late wife, Maxine, Peter was a cherished father and grandad who will be deeply missed by his family and many friends.

His funeral service was held at Kettering Crematorium on Monday, 6th July 2026

Peter’s presence in the council chambers and his active involvement in the life of Oakham leave a lasting imprint on the community he worked so diligently to represent. He will be remembered not only for his formal roles but for the spirit of service he brought to every task he undertook for the people of Rutland.


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

Oakham And Rutland What's On Guide

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Oakham Town Council Withdraws from Victoria Hall Trusteeship Following a Very Heated Debate

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


In a dramatic and closely contested session, Oakham Town Council has voted to officially cease its pursuit of sole trusteeship for the Victoria Hall. The decision, which marks a significant turning point in the long-running saga surrounding the historic building, has left the future of the venue in a state of deep uncertainty.

The meeting was characterised by intense and at times unprofessional debate, highlighting the deep rift among local representatives regarding the financial and managerial viability of the project. With the council split down the middle, the Chairman was forced to exercise a casting vote to break the deadlock, ultimately cementing the decision to withdraw.

The atmosphere in the room turned particularly volatile during the proceedings. In a heated exchange, Councillor Christopher Clark leveled a sharp rebuke at Cllr Brookes, stating that he would become "the most hated person in Oakham" for his stance. Cllr Brookes, unmoved by the accusation, has since responded with a pointed rhetorical question: "Am I not meant to be that person already?"

The council’s resolution dictates that no further taxpayer funds will be directed toward the Victoria Hall. By stepping back from the trusteeship application, the council has effectively handed the responsibility for the hall's future back to the Trustees and the Charity Commission.

For those supporting the withdrawal, the move represents a necessary line in the sand. Critics of continued investment argue that the burden of the hall's decline should not rest on the shoulders of the town's taxpayers.

"It is my personal opinion that Oakham Town Council or its taxpayers are not responsible for the failing of the hall; the trustees are responsible for that failure," Cllr Brookes remarked following the vote. He expressed significant frustration regarding the fiscal history of the project, noting that the council had already invested nearly £100,000 into a facility that the trustees ultimately chose to close last year.

According to records over the last 3 years, this expenditure included:

£23,000 in direct taxpayer funding provided to help keep the hall operational.

Significant capital for the installation of a new boiler.

Substantial costs associated with various property surveys.

The decision brings an abrupt end to the town council's involvement in the day-to-day management of the Victoria Hall. With the council refusing to provide further financial life support, the facility now faces a precarious path forward.


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

Oakham And Rutland What's On Guide

Music Bands Live music 2026 Bandstand Cutts Close Oakham Rutland

Oakham and Rutland  Sports and Fitness Events News

UK Town of Culture Oakham Rutland 2028 Bid

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

Road Closures Rutland Highways 

Discover Oakham

Discover Opportunities with
Oakham And Rutland News
Job Vacancies Oakham Rutland

Remembering Jim Harrison A Dedicated Servant, Former Oakham Mayor and Talented Photographer of Oakham

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

The community of Oakham is mourning the loss of a familiar face and dedicated public servant. Former Oakham mayor and accomplished photographer, Jim Harrison, has passed away at the age of 79.

Jim died in hospital on June 16 following a period of illness. His passing comes with poignant timing, as he was just weeks shy of celebrating his 80th birthday.

A Legacy of Service to Oakham

Jim Harrison was a well-known and respected figure within the town. He stepped into the role of Mayor of Oakham in 2007, an honour he held with great pride and commitment. During his time in office, he became a visible champion for the local area, working diligently to support the interests of his fellow residents.

Beyond his contributions to local government, Jim was deeply connected to the aesthetic and historical life of the region through his photography. His work captured the character of Oakham and its surrounding landscapes, leaving behind a visual record that many in the community will continue to cherish.

Funeral Arrangements

The community will have the opportunity to pay their final respects to Jim 

on Friday, July 17.

  • Service Time: 12:30 pm

  • Location: Great Glen Crematorium

As Oakham remembers his life, he is recalled as a man who cared deeply for his town both as a leader who navigated its civic life and as a photographer who helped others see its beauty.


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

Oakham And Rutland What's On Guide

Music Bands Live music 2026 Bandstand Cutts Close Oakham Rutland

Oakham and Rutland  Sports and Fitness Events News

UK Town of Culture Oakham Rutland 2028 Bid

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

Road Closures Rutland Highways 

Discover Oakham

Discover Opportunities with
Oakham And Rutland News
Job Vacancies Oakham Rutland

Monday, July 06, 2026

Oakham Town Council Bids Farewell to Cllr Dr. Jonathan Nichols

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

Oakham Town Council Bids Farewell to Cllr Dr. Jonathan Nichols

Oakham Town Council is set to see a change in its composition following the resignation of Councillor Dr. Jonathan Nichols. Citing the pressures of his professional life, Dr. Nichols has stepped down from his position to ensure he can adequately balance his ongoing commitments.

Dr. Nichols explained that his decision was prompted by the recent addition of significant new projects at his workplace. After careful consideration, he concluded that he could no longer dedicate the necessary time and energy to his role as a councillor to meet the standards he sets for himself. He noted that it had become clear to him that he was unable to dedicate the level of focus to the role that he would like to provide, emphasizing his belief that the responsibilities of the council should be held by those who can provide their full attention.

While his time on the council has come to a close, Dr. Nichols leaves behind a record of dedicated service. Chairman of Oakham Town Council, Cllr Martin Brookes, expressed his gratitude for Dr. Nichols' contributions during his tenure. Cllr Brookes specifically highlighted the outgoing councillor's leadership regarding the UK Town of Culture Bid Application, describing it as a significant undertaking for the community.

The news of the resignation has been met with sadness by fellow council members, who highlighted both Dr. Nichols' professional contributions and his personal character. Colleagues expressed their regret at his departure, with some describing him as a "lovely man" and others noting that he is a "very decent chap" whose presence will be missed, leaving the council worse off for his absence.


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

Oakham And Rutland What's On Guide

Music Bands Live music 2026 Bandstand Cutts Close Oakham Rutland

Oakham and Rutland  Sports and Fitness Events News

UK Town of Culture Oakham Rutland 2028 Bid

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

Road Closures Rutland Highways 

Discover Oakham

Discover Opportunities with
Oakham And Rutland News
Job Vacancies Oakham Rutland