Oakham & Rutland News: January 2025

Have Your Say on Proposed Improvements to Healthcare Services in Rutland

NHS Leicester, Leicestershire and Rutland Integrated Care Board (LLR ICB) is seeking feedback from patients, family carers, staff, the public, and stakeholders on proposed improvements to healthcare services in Rutland. The LLR ICB is committed to providing high-quality, accessible healthcare services to the people of Rutland. To ensure that the proposed improvements meet the needs of the community, the LLR ICB is encouraging everyone to share their thoughts and opinions.

How to Have Your Say

The LLR ICB is holding a public consultation on the proposed improvements.

You can share your thoughts and opinions by completing a short questionnaire.

The questionnaire is available online at: https://leicesterleicestershireandrutland.icb.nhs.uk/be-involved/rutland-same-day-access-consultation/

Your feedback is essential to ensuring that the proposed improvements meet the needs of the community. By sharing your thoughts and opinions, you can help the LLR ICB to make informed decisions about the future of healthcare services in Rutland.

Rutland Council Scrutiny Committee Declines Review of Car Parking Charge Restructure

Rutland County Council's scrutiny committee has declined a request to review a proposed restructure of car parking charges. The decision was made during a meeting last night, where the committee cited their current workload as the reason for not taking on the additional review.

Councillor Christine Wise (Lib Dem), the cabinet member for transport, had requested the scrutiny committee, chaired by Councillor Ramsay Ross (Labour), to examine the planned changes to parking fees in council-owned car parks across Oakham and Uppingham town centres. The proposed restructure aims to revise the current fee structure, but details of the specific changes were not disclosed during the meeting.

The scrutiny committee's role is to provide oversight and challenge the decisions and policies of the council's cabinet. By declining to review the car parking charge restructure, the committee is forgoing an opportunity to scrutinise the potential impact of the changes on residents, businesses, and visitors to the towns.

The committee's decision highlights the pressure on the scrutiny committee's time and resources, raising concerns about their capacity to effectively scrutinise all council activities.

While the committee's refusal means the car parking charge restructure will not be subject to their review, the cabinet may still choose to proceed with the changes. The details of the proposed restructure and the timeline for implementation remain to be seen. Further information is expected to be released by Rutland County Council in the coming weeks. Residents and businesses are encouraged to stay informed about these developments and engage with the council to express their views on any proposed changes.

Spring into Oakham! A Festive Day of Fun and Freebies, head to Oakham Rutland on Saturday, March 15th!

Spring into Oakham! A Festive Day of Fun and Freebies

Get ready to shake off the winter blues and welcome spring at the Oakham Town Centre Traders'

Spring Event on Saturday, March 15th!

The High Street and Mill Street will be transformed into a pedestrian-friendly haven, closed to traffic and lined with exciting stalls. Don't miss the vibrant farmers market taking place on Gaol Street, offering a chance to sample local produce and artisanal goods. It's also Market day in the Marketplace

This family-friendly event is packed with free activities and entertainment for all ages:

Embark on a FREE Treasure Hunt: A fun way to explore the town and discover hidden gems.

Delve into History with FREE Guided Tours: Oakham Castle is offering fascinating guided tours exploring the rich history of Mill Street and Crown Walk.

Enjoy FREE Music in the Castle: Relax and enjoy live music within the historic walls of Oakham Castle.

Engage in FREE Children's Activities: Keep the little ones entertained with a range of activities at the Rutland County Museum.

Adding to the festive atmosphere, local retailers will be showcasing their creativity with beautifully decorated spring-themed window displays. The judging of these displays will take place at 2 pm, with the esteemed judging panel consisting of Rutland's Lord Lieutenant, Dr. Sarah Furness, and Oakham's Mayor, Cllr Paul Ainsley.

Weather permitting, many retailers will also bring their shops out onto the streets with stalls, creating a bustling marketplace atmosphere and offering shoppers a chance to browse a variety of goods. Come and experience the charm of Oakham this spring!

Oakham Man Avoids Jail After Accidentally Carrying Knife to Court

An Oakham man facing a knife conviction he previously pleaded guilty to being in Barleythorpe Road in Oakham with a kitchen knife.

He narrowly avoided jail after accidentally carrying a knife to court. Mark Barker, 37, complied with probation staff instructions to attend magistrates court in Pocklingtons Walk. However, a small pink knife with a one-inch locking blade was discovered in his coat pocket as he passed through security using a hand-held metal detector.

Possession of knives with blades over three inches, or any knife with a locking blade, is illegal in public without a lawful reason. Given Barker's two prior knife convictions, UK sentencing guidelines suggested a starting point of six months in prison.

Despite this, magistrates chose not to incarcerate Barker, citing his personal circumstances. The fact that he had previously carried the same knife through security at the crown court and his positive engagement following a prior conviction for an incident on Barleythorpe Road, which resulted in a community order, also played a role in the decision.

Barker's lawyer, Alison Hubbard, emphasised the unusual nature of the knife, asking the magistrates to view a photograph. "I do think that it's important that you see it," she stated. "He didn't realise it opened up into a knife. I'm not sure this is the kind of thing designed for this catch-all law. It looks like something that's designed to attract children and it's easily available."

Ms. Hubbard also highlighted Barker's vulnerabilities, explaining that he is unable to read or write, struggles to communicate, and has a very low IQ. She described how he had been exploited by others in Oakham, who had taken over his home for drinking and refused to leave. Barker has since been moved to a hostel, and plans are underway to find him housing in a different town.

The chair of the bench, Annette Cooper, addressed Barker, saying, "We've noted your personal circumstances and the very good work you're doing with probation. We feel there are exceptional circumstances for us not to impose custody. There are clearly vulnerabilities, we note the design of the item and the fact you had been into the crown court with it."

Instead of imprisonment, Barker received a 12-month community order, including 10 days of work with the probation service. He was also ordered to pay a £40 fine and a £114 victim surcharge.

Mark Barker, 37, previously of Alpine Close, Oakham, managed to avoid immediate custody despite it being his third knife conviction.

Motorists are advised to avoid the A606 at Langham Rutland following a road closure due to a serious road traffic collision (RTC).

A606 Langham Road Closure Causes Traffic Chaos

Motorists are advised to avoid the A606 at Langham following a road closure due to a serious road traffic collision (RTC).

The closure is in effect between the Melton Mowbray side of Langham and the Pickwell crossroads.

Emergency services are currently on the scene, and the road is expected to remain closed for some time while investigations take place and the area is cleared. This has resulted in significant traffic congestion, with long tailbacks reported in both directions.

Drivers are strongly urged to find alternative routes and allow extra time for their journeys. Local diversions may be in place, but these are likely to be heavily congested as well. It is recommended to seek alternative routes further afield to avoid the affected area entirely.

Two Shoplifters Jailed for Thefts in Oakham, Rutland

Two Shoplifters Jailed for Thefts in Oakham

Two individuals, James Ailmore and Pauline Hutchinson, both residents of Yew Tree Crescent, Melton, have been sentenced for a series of thefts from stores in Oakham. The pair targeted local shops on multiple occasions throughout January, stealing hundreds of pounds worth of food and alcohol.

Between January 8th and January 25th, Ailmore carried out five separate thefts, primarily focusing on wine. Hutchinson joined him in three of these incidents. Their crimes were uncovered following a review of CCTV footage from the affected stores.

Both Ailmore, 41, and Hutchinson, 42, pleaded guilty to theft at Leicester Magistrates’ Court on Monday. Ailmore received a six-week prison sentence, while Hutchinson was given a four-week sentence, suspended for 12 months. This sentencing serves as a reminder that shoplifting is a crime that will be taken seriously by the courts.

Uppingham Rutland Welcomes New Neighbourhood Police Officer

Uppingham Welcomes New Neighbourhood Police Officer

Uppingham residents have a new face on the local policing scene, with Leicestershire Police announcing the appointment of PC George Pears to the Uppingham neighbourhood policing team. PC Pears brings a wealth of experience and a proven track record to the role.

In recent months, PC Pears has been instrumental in tackling County Lines drug activity within Rutland. His efforts have resulted in numerous arrests and the seizure of both Class A and Class B drugs, demonstrating a strong commitment to keeping the community safe. This proactive approach to crime fighting is expected to be a valuable asset to the Uppingham policing team.

The appointment of PC Pears underscores Leicestershire Police's ongoing commitment to local policing and their focus on addressing community concerns. While the police announcement highlights PC Pears's recent successes, it also suggests a continued focus on tackling drug-related crime in the area. Residents can likely expect to see PC Pears engaging with the community, building relationships, and working to address local priorities. The arrival of a dedicated neighbourhood officer often signals a renewed emphasis on community engagement and proactive policing, which can contribute to a stronger sense of security and well-being within the town.

Live Music at The Falcon Hotel, Uppingham, Rutland, Main Lounge will come alive with the vibrant sounds of the Rachael Johnson Trio.

Live Music at The Falcon Hotel, Uppingham, Rutland

Get ready for a night of musical fusion at The Falcon Hotel in Uppingham! On Friday, January 31st, the Main Lounge will come alive with the vibrant sounds of the Rachael Johnson Trio. This dynamic jazz group will take you on a rhythmic journey around the globe, blending Swing, Latin, Rock, and Modern Pop influences.

The event is free and open to all, offering a fantastic opportunity to experience world-class music in a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere. The performance will take place from 8 pm to 10 pm, providing the perfect soundtrack to your Friday night.

The Falcon Hotel: A Hub for Entertainment

The Falcon Hotel, located at 7 High Street, Uppingham, LE15 9PY, is a renowned establishment known for its hospitality and commitment to providing quality entertainment. With its Main Lounge serving as a versatile space for events, The Falcon Hotel has become a hub for live music enthusiasts in the area.

Booking and Contact Information

To ensure a table for this exciting event, you can call The Falcon Hotel at 01572 823 535. However, feel free to pop in and enjoy the music without a reservation.

Uppingham: A Vibrant Town in Rutland

Uppingham, a charming market town in Rutland, England, is known for its historic architecture, thriving community, and cultural events. The Rachael Johnson Trio performance at The Falcon Hotel is just one example of the town's commitment to providing diverse entertainment options for its residents and visitors.

Uppingham in Bloom Fighting for National Glory in Britain in Bloom 2025

Uppingham in Bloom: Fighting for National Glory in Britain in Bloom 2025

Uppingham, Rutland, is celebrating after being announced as a finalist in the prestigious Britain in Bloom 2025 UK Finals competition. The town will be competing in the "small town" category, vying for national recognition for its horticultural excellence and community spirit.

Uppingham is one of 44 community gardening groups from across the UK to reach the finals. Notably, they are among 13 groups experiencing the UK Finals for the first time, marking a significant achievement for the town.

The competition sees Uppingham up against other top contenders, with judging taking place in the summer of 2025. The finalists will be assessed on three core criteria: environmental impact, community engagement, and horticultural achievement. Judges will be looking for evidence of vibrant planting, sustainable practices, and strong community involvement in the town's green spaces.

Britain in Bloom is more than just a flower show; it's a celebration of community spirit and environmental responsibility. For many participating groups, including Uppingham, the initiative serves as a platform to promote mental well-being, enhance biodiversity, and foster community cohesion. Engaging with schools, vulnerable groups, and residents of all ages is a key element of successful Bloom entries.

The competition highlights how community gardening instils a sense of pride and ownership, leading to cleaner, greener, and more welcoming public spaces. Volunteers across the country dedicate their time and energy to transforming their local areas, creating beautiful and sustainable environments for everyone to enjoy.

Uppingham's journey to the national finals began with success in the regional "Bloom" competition. Each of the 17 Bloom Regions and Nations nominates its highest-performing entrants to compete at the UK level. The winners in each of the eight UK Finals categories will be announced at an awards ceremony in the autumn of 2025, with one group crowned the overall Britain in Bloom winner.

Pak Ling Wan, RHS Community Programme Manager, emphasized the positive impact of Bloom, stating, "Across the UK, groups are enjoying the benefits gardening brings both to their local communities and their own wellbeing. They are making a real difference to the places we live, making them more welcoming to all, tackling environmental issues and engaging people in their activities that positively impacts the wider community.” Uppingham will now be working hard to impress the judges and bring home the national title, showcasing the town's commitment to horticultural excellence and community engagement.

Rutland County Council Launches Consultation on Ryhall Library Services

Rutland County Council has launched a public consultation to gather feedback on the future of library services in Ryhall. The consultation, which runs until Thursday, February 27th, seeks input from local residents on alternative ways to deliver library services.

This initiative follows a review of the Ryhall Library building, which revealed that the necessary renovations to bring the facility up to standard exceed the allocated budget. As part of a larger plan to enhance all four libraries in Rutland, the council is now exploring different options for delivering library services to the Ryhall community.

The council emphasises the importance of community involvement in this process and is encouraging all library users to participate in the consultation. Councillor Christine Wise, Cabinet Member for Transport, Environment, and Communities at Rutland County Council, stated, "I would urge library users from Ryhall and other areas to take part in this consultation. We understand the importance of a library service and are keen to hear from the public on how this can best be delivered."

Residents can share their views and ideas through an online survey available on the Rutland County Council website. For those who prefer a paper format, copies of the survey are available at the Ryhall Library.

www.rutland.gov.uk/have-your-say/ryhall-library-services

To further facilitate community engagement, the council will also be hosting drop-in sessions at the Ryhall Library building. These sessions will provide an opportunity for residents to speak directly with officers from the Living Well Rutland Service. The drop-in sessions are scheduled for the following dates and times:

Thursday, February 6th: 1:30 PM – 5:00 PM

Friday, February 7th: 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM

Thursday, February 13th: 9:00 AM – 12:30 PM

The council encourages all Ryhall library users, as well as residents from surrounding areas, to take part in the consultation and help shape the future of library services in the community.

Ryhall Library: Exploring Alternative Futures for Library Services

Rutland County Council is embarking on a public consultation regarding the future of library services in Ryhall. This consultation is crucial as the council explores alternative options for delivering these vital services to the community. This article explains the background to this consultation and how residents can get involved.

The council has secured £950,000 in national grant funding to enhance all four of its library buildings, transforming them into new "Living Well Centres." However, during condition surveys conducted to inform these enhancements, it became clear that Ryhall Library presents a unique challenge.

The necessary works to bring the Ryhall building up to standard exceed the available budget allocated for the site. This has prompted the council to notify the Department of Digital Culture Media and Sport (DCMS) and the Arts Council, as required, to explore alternative solutions for delivering library services in Ryhall. This notification is a preliminary step, preceding public engagement and consultation.

The council is now at the stage of public consultation, seeking input from the community to consider all options and propose an alternative plan to the Arts Council. The goal is to secure the available funding and ensure the continued provision of library services in the Ryhall area.

The Condition of Ryhall Library:

Ryhall Library, a single-story brick building constructed in the early 1970s, has several structural issues. A recent update to the 2021 building condition survey revealed several defects requiring attention within the next five years to prevent further deterioration.

While Rutland's Living Well programme is funded through Section 106 monies, capital grants, and the national Libraries Improvement Fund (LIF), the estimated cost of repairs for Ryhall Library significantly surpasses the available LIF grant. The required works are estimated to cost at least £250,000, nearly four times the allocated funding.

Specific issues include water damage, roof construction concerns, evidence of nesting bats, and ground-level access problems. Internally, the building suffers from fractured brickwork, defective doors and windows, and requires washroom replacement. A full rewire, along with new heating and lighting systems, is likely necessary. The building also has minimal insulation. Furthermore, specialist surveys, including an asbestos survey, are required to fully assess the extent of the work and associated costs.

The Importance of Community Input:

Because the LIF funding must be spent by the end of March 2026, work on other library sites must proceed as planned while the Ryhall consultation takes place. The council emphasises the importance of community participation in shaping the future of Ryhall's library services. Residents are encouraged to engage in the consultation process to ensure that all viable options are explored and the best possible solution is implemented.

www.rutland.gov.uk/have-your-say/ryhall-library-services

Rutland County Council Approves New Transport Hub and Community Facility in Oakham, a new transport hub at Jules House on Cold Overton Road

Rutland County Council Approves New Transport Hub and Community Facility in Oakham

Rutland County Council Planning Committee met this evening to decide on the fate of a planning application for a new transport hub at Jules House on Cold Overton Road. Following a deferral in September 2024 to address concerns and incorporate revisions, the committee ultimately approved the development.

The project involves the refurbishment of the existing Jules House building and the construction of a side extension to accommodate the new electric bus services. Notably, the planning committee also granted Class E approval, allowing for the operation of a café on-site, adding a community facility dimension to the transport hub.

The planning application had faced opposition from some residents. Concerns were raised regarding potential traffic congestion and the perceived need for a second bus station in Oakham.

The council believes the new transport hub is expected to play a crucial role in supporting the transition to electric bus services in Rutland. By providing dedicated infrastructure and a community facility, the development aims to enhance public transport accessibility and promote sustainable travel options within the county.

With the planning approval secured, Rutland County Council can now proceed with the implementation of the new transport hub project. They council say the development is expected to bring significant benefits to the community, including improved public transport connectivity and a new community space.

Specsavers Oakham Rutland Hiring Optical Assistant

Specsavers Oakham Hiring Optical Assistant

Specsavers Oakham is currently seeking both full-time / part-time Optical Assistant to join their team.

The company is offering full training for the position, making it an ideal opportunity for those interested in entering the optical field or looking to expand their skills.

Specsavers is a leading international optical retailer with a strong presence in the UK. They offer a wide range of eye care services, including eye tests, glasses, and contact lenses.

Those interested in applying for the Optical Assistant position at Specsavers Oakham should send their CV and a covering letter to Sam, Email: MGR.OAKHAM.UK@SPECSAVERS.COM.

B.Jewellery Oakham Rutland is Hiring!

They have an exciting opportunity for a dedicated candidate with a passion for jewellery to join their team as a Part-Time Sales Assistant.

Qualities required

Self-motivated

Approachable

Well-presented

Ability to be flexible

Team player

Trustworthy

Full training will be provided on jewellery technical products and the use of IT systems.

This role is part-time, including weekends. You may be asked to work both Saturday and Sunday one weekend.

During the busy season, you may be required to work additional days.

Salary is dependent on age and experience and will be discussed at the interview.

How to Apply:

To apply, please send your CV and a covering letter to: info@b-jewellery.co.uk

For more information about the company, visit their website: www.b-jewellery.co.uk

Knights of Oakham Seeks Delivery Assistant and Installers

Knights of Oakham, a popular local Electrical store, is looking to expand its team with the addition of part-time / full-time Delivery Assistant & Installer.

The ideal candidates will have excellent customer service skills and a full UK driving licence. Additionally, they must be physically capable of lifting and moving electrical appliances.

Responsibilities for the role will include assisting with deliveries and installations of items sold in the store.

Interested applicants are encouraged to inquire for more details in-store.

Applications can be submitted in writing to Kevin Naylor (Manager) at Knights of Oakham, 33-37 High Street, Oakham, LE15 6AH.

Contact Information:

Tel: (01572) 722240

If you have any further questions about the position or the company, feel free to reach out to them at the provided contact information.

The Pickfords Pharmacy located in Oakham, Rutland is set to close its doors permanently on February 28th, 2025.

The decision to close has been made, and the pharmacy is now in the process of selling off all its assets, including fixtures, fittings, and equipment.

This closure will likely have a significant impact on the local community, as a Pharmacy at this location has been a staple in Oakham for many years.

Residents who rely on the pharmacy for their healthcare needs will now have to find alternative options.

The sale of the pharmacy's assets presents an opportunity for other businesses in the area.

Those interested in acquiring any of the equipment or fixtures can inquire with the pharmacy directly.

Severn Trent Water Work on Melton Road Oakham Rutland Stalls Progress, Resident Concerns Linger

Severn Trent Water Work on Melton Road Stalls Progress, Resident Concerns Linger

Work by Severn Trent Water on Melton Road in Oakham, which is expected to conclude by January 30th, 2025, appears to be facing delays. The project, aimed at upgrading some of the local water infrastructure, has drawn criticism from some residents who feel the progress has been unnecessarily slow.

On a recent visit to the site, Oakham and Rutland News observed that no work was currently underway. This lack of activity has fuelled concerns among residents who are eager to see the disruption to their daily routines come to an end.

Melton Road is a crucial thoroughfare in Oakham, connecting the town centre to the Oakham High Street. The ongoing roadworks have caused significant traffic congestion and inconvenience for local businesses and commuters.

Residents are hoping for a swift resolution to the situation and a return to normalcy on Melton Road.

Yesterday residents filmed motorists ignoring the Road Closure and driving through on the pavement.

Oakham and Rutland News will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates as they become available.

Rutland and Stamford MP Alicia Kearns Public Meeting Addresses Concerns Regarding Devolution in Rutland Video

Public Meeting Addresses Concerns Regarding Devolution in Rutland Video

Alicia Kearns MP for Rutland and Stamford

Disclaimer: Oakham and Rutland News would like to point out that some public contributions may be considered offensive by some viewers. We did consider editing one individual's comments regarding the Prime Minister; however, we believe in the principle of freedom of speech and have decided not to modify the content. We would like to clarify that the views expressed in these comments do not reflect the opinions of Oakham and Rutland News.

On the evening of 27th January 2025, Alicia Kearns, the Member of Parliament for Rutland and Stamford, convened a public meeting at Victoria Hall to discuss the government’s plans for devolution. The meeting attracted a substantial audience, primarily composed of local residents who expressed a strong interest in the preservation of Rutland's ceremonial status.

Alicia Kearns commenced the meeting by outlining the governmental intentions related to devolution, which aims to confer additional powers to local authorities. However, the discourse rapidly transitioned to the critical issue of retaining Rutland’s unique ceremonial identity. Attendees articulated their concerns, emphasising the importance of maintaining the county’s heritage and distinctiveness.

Tourism and business income or lack of them was a concern. Many small business thrive on using the name Rutland within their product name or service.

Kearns demonstrated active listening as constituents articulated their viewpoints, underscoring the necessity of ensuring that Rutland’s perspectives are adequately represented throughout the devolution process. She assured participants that their feedback would be duly considered in the course of ongoing discussions.

In light of the evident interest expressed by the community, Kearns announced plans to organise further meetings at various stages of the government's devolution initiatives. She highlighted the importance of sustained engagement, encouraging attendees to remain informed and actively participate in dialogues concerning the implications of the proposed changes.

As the meeting concluded, it became apparent that the community's commitment to preserving Rutland's ceremonial status is robust. The discussions initiated at Victoria Hall are expected to continue, as local residents seek to advocate for their interests amid governmental reforms.

With additional meetings scheduled, residents of Rutland are afforded the opportunity to influence the future trajectory of their county, ensuring it continues to thrive as a distinctive and vibrant part of the region.

Rutland County Council have also announced a special meeting to be held at the council chamber at Catmose on Tuesday, 11th February, 2025 7.00 pm

Public Meeting About the Future of Rutland This Evening, Alicia Kearns MP at Victoria Hall, Oakham and Rutland News Live Streaming.

We’d like to sincerely apologise for the sound issue experienced during the live streaming of our event this evening. We understand how important clear audio is for your viewing experience. A recording of Alicia Kearns MP's public meeting, with improved sound quality, is currently being processed and will be shared as soon as possible. Thank you for your understanding and patience.

Public Meeting About the Future of Rutland This Evening

This evening there is a public meeting about the future of Rutland at Victoria Hall in Oakham.

The event has limited space so Oakham and Rutland News will be recording the meeting.

We are also hoping to broadcast it live to our Facebook page.

www.facebook.com/oakhamrutlandnews

From 6.00pm

If you're interested in the future of Rutland, this is a great opportunity to learn more and hear from others in the community.

Become an Oakham Town Councillor: Seize the Opportunity!

Oakham Town Council is seeking passionate residents to step forward and fill four vacancies.

This is a chance for individuals committed to making a real difference in their community, particularly given the recent departures of two councillors.

The recent resignation of Linda Chatfield and the passing of Mr. Paul Buxton have left essential roles open for dedicated community members.

As outlined in the Local Government Act 1972, if ten electors from the North East Ward quickly come together to request an election by 7 February 2025, an election will be held. If not, the council can appoint new members through co-option.

Why Consider Co-option?

If you’re eager to contribute sooner rather than later, co-option might be the perfect route for you.

Two vacancies can be filled by co-option.

Interested individuals are encouraged to reach out to Oakham Town Council directly.

Oakham Town Council

ROL House

Long Row

Oakham

Rutland

LE15 6LN

Telephone. 01572 723627

Email. enquiries@oakhamtowncouncil.gov.uk

https://oakhamtowncouncil.gov.uk/

Why Join the Council?

Becoming a councillor is not just about holding a position; it’s about being a powerful advocate for your community.

If you are passionate about driving positive change, now is the time to turn that passion into action.

Before diving in, take time to engage with your community. Understand the pressing issues that matter most to Oakham residents and how you can help address them.

Conversing with neighbours and participating in local events will equip you with the insights needed to serve effectively on the council.

If you live or work in Oakham and have ever envisioned stepping into a leadership role, this is your moment.

Whether you seek to prompt an election or would prefer co-option, don’t wait to make your voice heard.

Contact Oakham Town Council today to learn more about these opportunities.

Your commitment could lead to impactful change!

Holocaust Memorial Day (HMD) this year marks the 80th anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz-Birkenau, the largest Nazi concentration and extermination camp complex.

Holocaust Memorial Day 2025: Remembering the Past, Building a Better Future

Holocaust Memorial Day (HMD) this year marks the 80th anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz-Birkenau, the largest Nazi concentration and extermination camp complex.

It also marks the 30th anniversary of the genocide in Bosnia.

These anniversaries serve as stark reminders of the horrors of genocide and the importance of learning from the past to prevent future atrocities. While racism and hatred do not always culminate in genocide, all genocides share common stages, including dehumanization, propaganda, and the creation of an "us vs. them" mentality.

The Holocaust, the systematic persecution and murder of six million Jews by the Nazi regime and its collaborators, exemplifies the devastating consequences of unchecked hatred. It began with discriminatory laws and the stripping of basic rights, escalating to mass violence and ultimately, the industrial-scale extermination of Jewish people.

The genocide in Bosnia, where an estimated 8,000 Bosnian Muslim men and boys were systematically murdered in Srebrenica in 1995, highlights the rapid escalation of violence when hatred and prejudice are allowed to fester.

Learning about the Holocaust and other genocides is crucial for several reasons:

Identifying Warning Signs: By understanding the stages of genocide, we can recognise early warning signs in contemporary society and take proactive steps to prevent such tragedies from occurring again.

Challenging Prejudice: Learning about the past helps us to understand the destructive nature of prejudice, discrimination, and hate speech. It empowers us to challenge these attitudes and behaviours in our own communities.

Honouring the Victims: Remembering the victims of genocide ensures that their suffering is not forgotten and that their stories continue to serve as a powerful testament to the importance of human dignity and respect.

Holocaust Memorial Day provides an opportunity for individuals and communities to take concrete action:

Educate Yourself and Others: Learn about the Holocaust and other genocides through reputable sources, Share your knowledge with others to raise awareness and promote understanding.

https://hmd.org.uk/learn-about-the-holocaust-and-genocides/

Challenge Hate Speech: Actively confront hate speech, discrimination, and prejudice whenever you encounter them.

Support Organisations: Support organisations working to combat hate, promote human rights, and prevent future genocides.

Remember the Victims: Honour the memory of those who were murdered in the Holocaust and other genocides.

By remembering the past and taking action in the present, we can work towards a future where human dignity and respect are upheld for all.

Number of Jewish victims murdered by the Nazis at killing centers

Number of Jewish victims

Chełmno at least 167,000

Belzec approximately 435,000

Sobibor at least 167,000

Treblinka II approximately 925,000

Auschwitz camp complex (including those gassed upon arrival at the Auschwitz-Birkenau killing centre and those who were killed in the camp complex through other means) approximately 1,000,000

Subtotal approximately 2.7 million Jewish people were murdered at killing centres

In total, six million Jews died in the Holocaust.

This number is calculated based on Nazi German documents and pre-war and post-war demographic data.

Non-Jewish groups persecuted by the Nazi German regime and its allies and collaborators

Number of non-Jewish victims

Soviet prisoners of war around 3.3 million

Non-Jewish (ethnic) Poles around 1.8 million

Romani men, women, and children and other people derogatorily labelled as "Gypsies" at least 250,000, but possibly as high as 500,000

Serb civilians murdered by Ustaša authorities of the Independent State of Croatia more than 310,000

People with disabilities living in institutions and care facilities 250,000–300,000, including at least 10,000 children

German political opponents and dissenters tens of thousands

Germans imprisoned in concentration camps as "professional criminals" and "asocials" about 35,000

Jehovah's Witnesses killed in concentration camps or executed for refusing to serve in the German military about 1,700

Gay men, bisexual men, and other men accused of homosexuality Hundreds, possibly thousands

Black people in Germany Unknown, perhaps hundreds

https://encyclopedia.ushmm.org/content/en/article/documenting-numbers-of-victims-of-the-holocaust-and-nazi-persecution

Rutland Morris Invites You to "Have a Go" at Ashwell Village Hall.

Rutland Morris Invites You to "Have a Go"

Rutland Morris is hosting a free "Have a Go" Workshop on Sunday, January 26th, 2025,

from 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM at Ashwell Village Hall.

Learn Traditional Morris Dancing: Participants will learn 2-3 traditional Morris dances during the workshop.

Enjoy refreshments and a buffet lunch throughout the session.

Friends and family are welcome to attend at the end of the workshop to watch participants perform the dances they've learned.

All are welcome! Please wear comfortable shoes or trainers and bring a water bottle.

Date: Sunday, January 26th, 2025

Time: 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM

Venue: Ashwell Village Hall, 12 Oakham Road, Ashwell, Rutland, LE15 7LW

This is a fantastic opportunity to experience the joy of Morris dancing in a relaxed and friendly environment.

No prior experience is necessary!

Oakham Canal Green Corridor Project Urgently Needs Woodchip Donations

The Oakham Canal Green Corridor Project is facing a critical shortage of woodchip, jeopardising the maintenance of vital footpaths throughout the winter months.

"Our woodchip store is completely empty," explains a spokesperson for the project. "Without this essential material, we simply cannot maintain the footpaths and ensure safe access for local residents and visitors."

The project is now appealing to tree surgeons and gardeners in the area to consider donating any surplus woodchip.

"If you have any woodchip available, we would be incredibly grateful if you could drop it off at our storage location off Ashwell Road, just past the end of Oakham Enterprise Park (heading north)," the spokesperson urges.

The Oakham Canal Green Corridor Project plays a crucial role in maintaining and improving the canal and surrounding areas, enhancing access for the local community.

To further support the project, residents are encouraged to participate in their monthly working groups. The next working group will take place on February 16th between 9:00 AM and 12:30 PM.

For more information on the working groups, the Oakham Canal Green Corridor Project, and how to get involved, please visit their Facebook page.

www.facebook.com/oakhamcanal

Let's work together to ensure the continued enjoyment and accessibility of the Oakham Canal Green Corridor!

www.oakhamcanal.org

Spring is in the Air at Rutland Garden Village, Garden Centre.

Spring is in the Air at Rutland Garden Village!

The garden centre at Rutland Garden Village in Ashwell is buzzing with activity as they prepare for the arrival of spring. Whether you're a seasoned gardener or just starting out, you'll find everything you need to cultivate a thriving garden.

From a wide variety of seeds to all the necessary tools and supplies, the garden centre has you covered. They also have a fantastic selection of seed potatoes, perfect for even the smallest of gardens – you can easily grow potatoes in containers!

After browsing the vibrant selection, be sure to reward yourself with a well-deserved break. Enjoy a hot drink and a delicious slice of cake from the Cakery the on-site café.