Leicestershire PCC Misconduct Hearing about Rupert Matthews Proceeded Privately Amid "Disappointing" Leaks

Leicestershire PCC Misconduct Hearing about Rupert Matthews Proceeded Privately Amid "Disappointing" Leaks 

By Local Democracy Reporter for Rutland.

A high-profile hearing concerning allegations of misconduct against Leicestershire’s Police and Crime Commissioner (PCC), Rupert Matthews, took place behind closed doors today. The proceedings were marked by tension after confidential documents were leaked to the media, prompting a stern rebuke from committee leaders.

The core of the complaint centers on a request allegedly made by Mr. Matthews to a serving Leicestershire Police officer. It is claimed that the PCC asked the officer to help arrange a photograph with a horse to be used in election campaign material.

While the PCC’s office acknowledges that Mr. Matthews met the officer on several occasions for "public engagement purposes," they have strongly pushed back against the narrative of the photo op. In a somewhat unusual defense, a spokesperson noted that Mr. Matthews is "extremely frightened of horses" and would never choose to work with them, adding that this fear has been a recurring point of humor during his public events.

The meeting, held on Wednesday, January 21, by the Leicester, Leicestershire, and Rutland Police Crime Panel’s complaints subcommittee, was strictly private. This decision sparked significant debate regarding the accountability of elected officials.

Critics and media outlets argued that as an elected official, Mr. Matthews should be scrutinised in public to maintain constituent trust.

Leicestershire County Council denied requests to open the hearing, citing the need to protect the integrity of the "informal resolution process."

Councillor Les Phillimore, chairman of the committee, opened the session by addressing the fact that confidential papers had reached the press before the hearing began. He described the situation as "extremely disappointing," stating:

"It undermines the individual's privacy and the integrity of the informal resolution process."

The timeline of the investigation dates back to September 2025, when the complaint was first referred to the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC). The referral included allegations of Intentionally encouraging or assisting an offence and Misconduct in public office.

However, after a formal assessment, the IOPC returned the case to the local Panel. A spokesperson for the watchdog confirmed that they did not find evidence to indicate that a criminal offence had been committed, leaving the matter to be handled as a local conduct issue rather than a criminal one.

As of now, the outcome of Wednesday’s private meeting remains unknown. The subcommittee’s role is to determine if the PCC’s conduct fell below the expected standards and what "informal resolution" such as an apology or a change in protocol might be required.

Because the meeting was held in private, the public may have to wait for an official statement from the Police and Crime Panel to learn how the matter was resolved.

Oakham Town Council Issues Call for Local Contractors for Bandstand Repairs and Play Area Deep Cleans

Oakham Town Council Issues Call for Local Contractors for Bandstand Repairs and Play Area Deep Cleans

Oakham Town Council is looking to invest in the upkeep of the town’s popular outdoor spaces and is currently inviting quotes from local businesses for two distinct maintenance projects.

The council is prioritising both the preservation of local landmarks and the hygiene of community play areas as the town prepares for increased footfall in the coming months.

The first project focuses on the historic Queen Elizbeth II bandstand at Cutts Close Park. A focal point for summer concerts and community gatherings, the bandstand’s brickwork is now in need of professional attention.

The council is seeking a qualified local builder to carry out essential repointing of the brickwork. This work is vital to ensure the structural integrity and aesthetic appeal of the bandstand, protecting it against weathering and long-term erosion.

In addition to the masonry work, the council has identified a need for a "deep clean" across three of Oakham’s busiest playgrounds. Residents have noted that equipment has become weathered and filthy dirty.

Contractors are being sought to jet wash and sanitize all play equipment at the following locations:

• Royce Recreation Ground (Princess Avenue)

• Cutts Close Park

• Willow Crescent Play Area

The goal is to remove grime and buildup, ensuring that the equipment is clean, safe, and inviting for the town’s children.

Oakham Town Council is keen to work with local tradespeople and professional cleaning contractors. Those interested in providing a quote or seeking further technical specifications for either project are encouraged to reach out directly to the council administration.

Contact Information: All enquiries and expressions of interest should be directed via email to: enquiries@oakhamtowncouncil.gov.uk

The For Rutland Good and New Clothes Sale, Rutland’s Premier Pre-Loved Fashion Event Returns for 2026

The For Rutland Good and New Clothes Sale, Rutland’s Premier Pre-Loved Fashion Event Returns for 2026

The For Rutland Good and New Clothes Sale, Rutland’s Premier Pre-Loved Fashion Event Returns for 2026

By Martin Brookes

The wait is almost over for fashion enthusiasts and bargain hunters alike. The For Rutland Good and New Clothes Sale widely regarded as one of the largest and most prestigious pre-loved clothing events in the country is officially returning this March.

Set against the stunning backdrop of the Rutland Hall Hotel, this annual event has become a staple of the local calendar, combining high-end style with a powerful community mission.

Organised by For Rutland, the dedicated fundraising arm of Citizens Advice Rutland, the sale is much more than a shopping spree. Last year’s event was a record-breaking success, raising an astonishing £53,000.

Every penny raised is funneled directly back into the community. Specifically, these funds sustain two specialist advisors who provide vital support to Rutland residents living with life-altering, long-term health conditions such as Dementia, Cancer, Multiple Sclerosis (MS) and Stroke recovery

What sets the "Good and New" sale apart from a typical thrift shop or jumble sale is the meticulous care taken by a dedicated team of volunteers. Every item whether it’s a designer handbag or a high-street staple is carefully inspected and mended before it hits the rails. This rigorous quality control ensures that shoppers walk away with "good as new" pieces at a fraction of their original retail price.

The 2026 collection features a diverse range of items for men, women, and children, including High-end designer labels, Premium high-street coats and dresses, Everyday essentials and denim and Curated accessories and footwear

The sale will be held over two days at the Rutland Hall Hotel, offering two very different shopping experiences:

Friday, 27 March Evening £30 Ticket  An exclusive preview evening featuring Champagne and canapés by from Hambleton Hall.

Saturday, 28 March Morning £5 Entry The main sale event, where most items are marked down to half price.

Tickets for the Friday night preview are expected to sell out quickly given the event's popularity. To secure your spot or to learn more about the incredible work For Rutland does for the community, visit the For Rutland website to book your tickets today.

www.forrutland.org.uk/goodandnewsale

Councils Unite to Revitalise 'Rutlander' Bus Route the R1 bus service, transforming travel between Rutland, Leicestershire, and North Northamptonshire.

Councils Unite to Revitalise 'Rutlander' Bus Route the R1 bus service, transforming travel between Rutland, Leicestershire, and North Northamptonshire.

Councils Unite to Revitalise 'Rutlander' Bus Route

By Local Democracy Reporter

Reliability and speed are at the heart of a major overhaul for the R1 bus service, following a unique three-council investment aimed at transforming travel between Rutland, Leicestershire, and North Northamptonshire.

The service, operated by Bland’s, has officially transitioned to an hourly frequency thanks to joint funding from Rutland County Council, Leicestershire County Council, and North Northamptonshire Council. The boost was made possible through the Government’s Local Authority Bus Grant (LABG).

The investment specifically targets the "bottlenecks" of rural travel. By adding a third bus to the circuit, operators aim to eliminate the delays that previously plagued the long-distance route.

For residents in the north of the region, journey times to Melton Mowbray have been slashed. This improvement is expected to provide a significant lift to the local economy, making it easier for commuters and shoppers to access Melton Market and various employment hubs.

Councillor Christine Wise, Portfolio Holder for Transport at Rutland County Council, hailed the project as a blueprint for future cooperation.

"More frequent buses, clearer information and faster journeys will make the service more useful for residents and help encourage more people to choose the bus."

Councillor Chris McGiffen, representing North Northamptonshire Council, emphasised the human element of the upgrade:

"Whether they’re travelling to work, college, or meeting friends and family, the service will better meet local needs and helps keep our communities connected."

Councillor Adam Tilbury of Leicestershire County Council added that the partnership was vital in helping residents "access key services more quickly and easily."

The launch follows a series of community events held in December, where the new-look 'Rutlander' buses were unveiled to the public. These events allowed passengers to meet the drivers and view the refurbished interiors firsthand.

The three local authorities have confirmed they will continue to explore further uses for the LABG funding to ensure rural connectivity remains a priority.

How to find out more:

Full timetables and route maps are now available at all upgraded bus stops 

Timetable: https://www.rutland.gov.uk/rutland-buses/bus-timetable-blands-r1