Rutland Your vote is your voice. Take a moment to check your registration and ensure you have the chance to use it in future elections, Make Your Voice Heard: A Guide to the Rutland Annual Canvass

Make Your Voice Heard: A Guide to the Rutland Annual Canvass

Residents of Rutland are being urged to ensure their eligibility to vote in future elections by participating in the annual canvass of electors. This yearly process, which runs from the end of July to December, is a crucial step for Rutland County Council in updating the Register of Electors and ensuring everyone who is eligible has the opportunity to make their voice heard.

The Register of Electors is more than just a list for voting; it's also a key component of your financial identity. Being on the register can affect your credit rating, so it's not just about civic duty—it's about personal financial well-being, too.

This year, there's a particular focus on recent movers. Electoral Commission research has consistently shown that people who have recently changed address are significantly less likely to be registered to vote. If you've moved house recently, be on the lookout for a voter registration message and make sure you check the details for your new address.

Rutland County Council, as with all local authorities, is legally required to conduct this annual canvass. In the coming days, residents will receive either an email or a letter asking them to confirm their details. Approximately 8,000 canvass emails will be sent out, and residents should check their inboxes, including their junk or spam folders, for an email from the secure address: rutland.county.council@notifications.service.gov.uk. Paper forms will follow in the post during August for those who require them.

The process is straightforward: simply follow the instructions in your email or letter and respond as soon as you can. Please note that the option to respond by text message is no longer available.

For those who don't respond, the council is obligated to make repeated attempts to contact them, which may include door-to-door canvassers visiting properties to gather the necessary information.

For further information on the process of registering to vote, you can visit the Electoral Commission's website at www.electoralcommission.org.uk/voting-and-elections. If you have any specific questions about the annual canvass in Rutland, you can contact the local registration team at elections@rutland.gov.uk or by calling 01572 720 954.

Your vote is your voice. Take a moment to check your registration and ensure you have the chance to use it in future elections.

A 76-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of administering poison after several children fell unwell at a Christian summer camp in the village of Stathern.

A 76-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of administering poison after several children fell unwell at a Christian summer camp in the village of Stathern.

The incident, which took place at a camp at Stathern Lodge owned by the by the Braithwaite Gospel Trust, prompted a major police response and has led to an investigation by the East Midlands Special Operations Unit’s Major Incident Team (MIT).

Leicestershire Police were first alerted on Sunday, July 27, when a third party reported that children at the camp were feeling unwell. While police did not attend the scene until Monday, emergency services were deployed to safeguard the children. A triage center was established at Plungar village hall, where all children from the camp were assessed. As a precaution, eight children were taken to the hospital, but have since been discharged.

The 76-year-old suspect was arrested on Monday evening at a nearby public house. He is being held on suspicion of "administering poison/a noxious thing with intent to injure/aggrieve/annoy."

Detective Inspector Neil Holden, the senior investigating officer, addressed the community's concerns, stating, "We understand the concern this incident will have caused to parents, guardians and the surrounding community." He assured the public that dedicated resources are working with partner agencies, including children's services, to ensure the full safeguarding of the children involved.

In a separate development, Leicestershire Police has referred itself to the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) due to the delay in their initial response to the report.

The Braithwaite Gospel Trust, which owns Stathern Lodge, also operates the nearby Dove Cottage Hospice.

The investigation is ongoing, and a dedicated Major Incident Public Portal (MIPP) has been set up for anyone with information related to the case. 

https://mipp.police.uk/operation/33EM25I63-PO1

Rutland Day Celebration Called Off by Oakham Town Council

Rutland Day Celebration Called Off by Oakham Town Council

Oakham Town Council has announced the cancellation of this year's Rutland Day event, citing concerns over the availability of key participants and potential low attendance. The decision comes after discussions between the council office and Councillor Wadsworth regarding the schedules of dignitaries and entertainers.

In a statement, the council office explained their reasoning: "Given the limited availability of entertainment and the risk of a low turnout, we believe it would be more appropriate to allocate public funds to other initiatives. We are keen to ensure that events are delivered to a high standard, and we would prefer not to proceed with one that may fall short of expectations."

This cancellation is particularly noteworthy as the council had already begun preparations for the event. They had been actively seeking stallholders through their social media channels and had even informed Rutland County Council about the proposed closure of Mill Street and High Street to accommodate the celebrations.

Looking ahead, the council office has suggested a new approach for future event planning. They recommend that all events be scheduled and confirmed at the beginning of each financial year. This proactive measure aims to provide sufficient notice to both attendees and collaborators, ultimately enhancing overall planning and participation.

It has also come to light that a contributing factor to the cancellation was a scheduling conflict, with a member of the office staff reportedly having booked a holiday this week, clashing with the proposed September date for Rutland Day.

There is also a concern that the decission to cancel the event was made by two people and not the full council at a meeting.

Music Filled Cutts Close Oakham Rutland as Idle Hands Delight Crowd

Music Filled Cutts Close Oakham Rutland as Idle Hands Delight Crowd

www.facebook.com/idlehandsbanduk

This past Sunday afternoon, the Cutts Close bandstand in Oakham, Rutland, was buzzing with activity as local band Idle Hands delivered a fantastic performance. A strong turnout of music lovers enjoyed the sunny weather and the band's set, making for a perfect end to the weekend.

The good times are set to continue! Next Sunday at 2:30 PM, another local group, Jaded, will take the stage. They'll be performing a variety of covers, promising another lively and entertaining afternoon for everyone in Oakham. Don't miss out!

www.facebook.com/JADEDLIVEBAND

Star-Studded Saturday in Oakham: Mark Steel and Clare Balding Bring BBC Radio 4 to Rutland

Star-Studded Saturday in Oakham: Mark Steel and Clare Balding Bring BBC Radio 4 to Rutland

Oakham, Rutland witnessed an extraordinary Saturday evening as the High Street buzzed with anticipation for a BBC Radio 4 recording of Mark Steel's acclaimed show. The queue for the show stretched remarkably along the High Street from Victoria Hall, a testament to the popularity of the satirist and comedian, and arguably one of the longest lines the town has seen for any event.

Those fortunate enough to secure a seat were treated to a wonderfully funny and engaging performance by Mark Steel, known for his incisive wit and observations on British towns. The show, which promises to offer a unique comedic take on Oakham and its inhabitants, was a resounding success, leaving the audience in stitches.

Adding to the star power of the evening was a special guest appearance by renowned broadcaster Clare Balding. She was also in Rutland, recording for her own BBC Radio 4 show, "Ramblings," which takes listeners on insightful walks across various landscapes. Her presence underscored the double dose of BBC talent gracing Oakham this past weekend.

Fans eager to relive the laughter and local insights will have to mark their calendars. Both Mark Steel's show and Clare Balding's "Ramblings" episode featuring Rutland are scheduled for broadcast on BBC Radio 4 in October later this year. Keep a close eye on the Radio 4 schedule, and for those who miss the broadcast, the shows will undoubtedly be available on the BBC Sounds player.

This unique convergence of two  BBC Radio 4 personalities certainly made for an unforgettable Saturday in Oakham and Rutland, solidifying its place, at least for one evening, as a hub of national radio entertainment.

Urgent Meeting Called to Consider Removal of Rutland County Council Leader Gale Waller (Liberal Democrat)

Urgent Meeting Called to Consider Removal of Rutland County Council Leader Gale Waller (Liberal Democrat)

A significant development is unfolding within Rutland County Council as a Special Meeting has been officially called for Tuesday, August 5, 2025, at 7:00 PM. The sole purpose of this extraordinary gathering is to deliberate on a motion to remove the current Leader from office.

The meeting was requisitioned by seven Rutland County Councillors: L Stephenson, K Payne, M Farina, K Heckels, D Wilby, G Clifton, and A Dinsmore. Their collective action meets the constitutional requirement for calling such a meeting, as outlined in Part 2, Article II 4, b of the Council’s constitution.

The motion, simply stated as “To resolve to remove the Leader from office,” indicates a clear challenge to the current leadership. Should the Council vote to pass this resolution, the constitution mandates that a new Executive Leader must be elected. This election could take place either during the very same meeting where the current Leader is removed, or at a subsequent meeting.

This special session marks a pivotal moment for Rutland County Council, as it faces a direct challenge to its leadership. The outcome of the vote on August 5th will undoubtedly shape the future direction of the council and its executive functions.

Lord Lieutenant Sarah Furness Welcomes New UK Citizens in Rutland Ceremony

Becoming a British citizen is a significant step, and the ceremony in Oakham where Rutland's Lord Lieutenant, Sarah Furness, welcomed new citizens from Romania, Brazil, Hungary, Malaysia, Turkey, The Gambia, and Algeria marks the culmination of a rigorous application process. Before reaching this special day, these individuals undertook several key steps to demonstrate their commitment and understanding of life in the UK.

Here's what these new citizens would have typically done and learned:

1. Meeting Eligibility Criteria and Applying

First and foremost, individuals seeking British citizenship must meet specific eligibility criteria based on their immigration status, length of residence in the UK, and character requirements. This usually involves:

Lawful Residence: Demonstrating a period of lawful residence in the UK, often for a certain number of years, without significant absences.

Good Character: Satisfying "good character" requirements, meaning they have not committed serious crimes or engaged in activities that would make them unsuitable for citizenship.

Intention to Reside: Showing an intention to continue living in the UK.

Once these fundamental criteria are met, they would have submitted a comprehensive application to the Home Office, providing detailed personal information and supporting documents.

2. Proving Knowledge of English Language

A crucial requirement for most adult applicants is to demonstrate a sufficient knowledge of the English language. This typically involves:

Approved English Language Test: Passing an approved Secure English Language Test (SELT) at a minimum of B1 level (Common European Framework of Reference for Languages) from an approved test centre. This test assesses speaking, listening, reading, and writing skills.

Degree Taught in English: Alternatively, if they have a degree that was taught or researched in English, they may be exempt from taking a separate language test, provided they can prove this.

Exemptions: Certain individuals may be exempt from the English language requirement, such as those over 65, under 18, or with certain physical or mental conditions.

3. Passing the "Life in the UK" Test

To prove their "Knowledge of Life in the UK," applicants aged 18 to 64 must pass the "Life in the UK" test. This is a computer-based multiple-choice test consisting of 24 questions, and candidates must score at least 75% (18 correct answers) to pass. To prepare for this, new citizens would have meticulously studied the official "Life in the United Kingdom: A Guide for New Residents" handbook. This handbook covers a wide range of topics, including:

British Values and Principles: Understanding the democratic principles, rule of law, individual liberty, and mutual respect and tolerance.

History: Key historical events, figures, and periods that have shaped the UK.

Culture and Traditions: Aspects of British culture, sports, arts, and national holidays.

Politics and Government: The UK's political system, including Parliament, elections, and local government.

Everyday Life: Practical information about living in the UK, such as healthcare, education, and employment.

The test ensures that new citizens have a fundamental understanding of British society, its laws, and its way of life, promoting integration and participation in the community.

4. The Citizenship Ceremony: Oath of Allegiance and Pledge

After successfully completing all the above steps and receiving approval from the Home Office, the final step is the citizenship ceremony. This public event, like the one held in Oakham, is a formal and symbolic occasion. During the ceremony, the new citizens:

Take the Oath of Allegiance (or Affirmation): They publicly declare their loyalty to His Majesty the King, his Heirs and Successors, according to law. Those who prefer not to swear by God can make an affirmation.

Make the Pledge: They promise to give their loyalty to the United Kingdom, respect its rights and freedoms, uphold its democratic values, observe its laws faithfully, and fulfill their duties and obligations as a British citizen.

The ceremony also typically involves welcoming speeches from dignitaries like the Lord Lieutenant, the presentation of the Certificate of British Citizenship, and often the playing of the National Anthem. It serves as a formal welcome into the British community and a recognition of their new status.

In essence, the journey to British citizenship for these individuals from Romania, Brazil, Hungary, Malaysia, Turkey, The Gambia, and Algeria involved a significant commitment to understanding and embracing the values, history, and laws of their new home, culminating in the public affirmation of their allegiance at the ceremony in Oakham.

Editors Note: Congratulations to all the new citizens. I was born here 58 years ago and last year, I took a British Citizenship test and failed, so well done for passing all your tests.

Rutland, Leicestershire Police Appeal for Information Following Fatal Ketton Collision

Rutland, Leicestershire Police Appeal for Information Following Fatal Ketton Collision

Rutland Police are appealing for witnesses and information following a fatal single-vehicle collision that occurred in Ketton on Friday night, July 25. The incident, which involved a black Vauxhall Astra colliding with a tree, tragically resulted in the death of a man in his 30s.

Emergency services were called to the scene on Ketton Road at approximately 7:20 PM. Upon arrival, officers found the vehicle ablaze. A courageous witness had managed to pull the man from the car before it was engulfed in flames. Despite the rapid response from Leicestershire Fire and Rescue Service and East Midlands Ambulance Service, the man was pronounced dead at the scene.

The collision took place on Ketton Road, between the A6121 and North Luffenham, as the Astra was traveling away from Ketton.

DS Jack Cornick from the force's Serious Collision Investigation Unit is leading the inquiry and is urging anyone with information to come forward. "We have an account from one witness," said DS Cornick, "but we know this black Astra was driving behind another car."

Investigators are particularly keen to speak with the driver of that vehicle, as they may possess crucial details regarding the moments leading up to the collision. "I'd like to speak to the driver of that car to see whether they have any helpful information about the collision," DS Cornick added.

Furthermore, officers are appealing to anyone who may have seen the black Astra as it was leaving Ketton, or who might have dashcam footage of the car. "Any small piece of information may be helpful," DS Cornick emphasised.

Rutland Police are urging anyone with information to assist with their investigation. You can submit information online via the force website at Making a road traffic incident report | Leicestershire Police or by calling 101, quoting incident number 699 of 25 July.

Rutland Rallies for Lorna's Legacy, Raising Nearly £10,000 for Children's Cancer Charity, Supershoes at Oakham Schools, Queen Elizabeth Theatre, Video Highlights and Photographs

Rutland Rallies for Lorna's Legacy, Raising Nearly £10,000 

for Children's Cancer Charity, Supershoes 

at Oakham Schools, Queen Elizabeth Theatre,

Nyx Arielle on Stilts

Rutland Rallies for Lorna's Legacy, Raising Nearly £10,000 for Children's Cancer Charity

Oakham, Rutland – July 23, 2025 

The spirit of a local fundraiser, Lorna Grey, was vibrantly celebrated as the Oakham School's Queen Elizabeth Theatre hosted the inaugural Lorna's Legacy Rutland Variety Show. The event was a resounding success, raising nearly £10,000 for Supershoes, a small children's cancer charity, in a heartfelt tribute to Lorna.

Allan Grey, Lorna's husband and the driving force behind Lorna's Legacy, expressed immense gratitude for the overwhelming support. He confirmed that ticket sales alone generated over £7,000, with additional significant donations flowing directly to Supershoes through their website from those unable to attend. The evening was a poignant one, marking almost a year since Lorna's passing, and Allan was visibly moved by the turnout dedicated to remembering his wife.

The evening kicked off an hour before the main show with a bustling courtyard gathering. Attendees enjoyed refreshments and entertainment provided by Otter's Fine Foods and Ovation Wine who served delectable food and drinks, while the air buzzed with performances from Sing Out Rutland, who presented their "African Dream" repertoire, and Leicester magician Sean Curtis, who captivated the crowd with impressive close-up magic tricks. Nyx Arielle enchanted guests on stilts.

The show officially commenced at 7 PM, seamlessly compered in the style of the Eurovision Song Contest by Rob Persani of Rutland and Stamford Sounds and renowned speaker Caroline Aston.

Sarah White from Supershoes delivered a moving address, sharing personal anecdotes about Lorna Grey and expressing profound thanks to her family for their unwavering support. She highlighted the vital work of Supershoes, a charity that collaborates with volunteer artists to create bespoke, hand-painted "supershoes" for children battling cancer. Sarah emphasised that these unique shoes provide a crucial boost of confidence, joy, and encouragement for movement during an incredibly challenging time, stating that "Lorna witnessed first-hand the power of a pair of Supershoes."

A Night of Diverse Talent

The stage came alive with a rich tapestry of local talent, showcasing the vibrant arts scene in Rutland:

• The evening began on a cheerful note with The D'Ukes of Rutland, who performed a delightful selection of tunes on the ukulele and keyboard.

• Following them, music student Rachelle Bamber delivered a moving vocal performance, complemented by a flute solo, of "Bless This Show" and "Where the Lost Things Go."

• The Jazettes, a dance group founded by Diahann Berridge that brings together individuals with no prior dance experience, charmed the audience with two engaging performances.

• Darren Hall, performing as "Flying Solo," captivated the audience with his soulful vocals and guitar, delivering hits by George Ezra, Snow Patrol, and Elton John.

• The Rutland Youth Association Dads, a group formed in 2019 to support the CALM campaign, brought laughter and energy with their unique performance, known for "wobbling their bits."

• Soprano Sophie Hurst, of "Sophie's Voice," showcased her remarkable talent, having recently performed as the lead soprano in "The Sorcerer Opera" in Buxton.

• During the interval, Sing Out Rutland provided acapella entertainment in the courtyard, keeping the festive atmosphere alive.

The second half of the show continued with equally captivating acts:

• The Rutland Voices Choir, under the baton of Peter Davis, uplifted spirits with a cheerful selection of songs, including "Here Comes the Sun" and "Lovely Day."

• Hannah and Cally, performing as Mishap Theatre, brought tears of laughter with their hilarious clowning routine.

• The Vintage Singers transported the audience with classic hits and a humorous take on a Justin Bieber song.

• Nyx Arielle returned to the stage, mesmerising the audience with her fire performance set to music.

• Steve Foster delivered a powerful trumpet solo, followed by a beautiful duet with Peter Davis on keyboard.

• The Jazettes returned for a second performance, drawing the main part of the show to a close.

Before the grand finale, the Lorna's Legacy team, including Allan Grey, Diahann Berridge, Lorna's daughters Hanna and Lucy, and neighbours Liz, Wes, and Mark, took to the stage. Allan delivered a heartfelt tribute to Lorna and thanked the entire team for their immense contributions and support in bringing the evening to fruition.

The night culminated with a dynamic performance by Rutland favorites The Houndogs, who got the entire crowd on their feet, singing and dancing to a selection of their hits. The evening concluded with a well-deserved full standing ovation for all the brilliant performers and organizers who put together an incredible showcase of Rutland's heart and soul for a truly worthy cause.

Lorna's Legacy, established by Allan after her passing in April 2024, aims to perpetuate Lorna's lifelong dedication to fundraising. Despite living with the complications of Type 1 diabetes from the age of 11 and even suffering a brain hemorrhage, Lorna fearlessly bungee jumped, abseiled, and zip-lined to raise money for various causes. Her memory lives on through these ongoing efforts, inspiring others to give back.

Lorna's Legacy : https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61561380490022

Supershoes: https://www.supershoes.org.uk/