Rutland County Council Marks Merchant Navy Day with Flag Raising Ceremony at Oakham Castle, Video and Photographs

Rutland County Council Marks Merchant Navy Day with Flag Raising Ceremony

The Lord Lieutenant of Rutland 

Dr Sarah Furness and Oakham Mayor

Cllr Christopher Nix 

In a touching tribute to the vital role of the Merchant Navy, Rutland County Council held a small but significant flag-raising ceremony today in the grounds of Oakham Castle. The event, which honoured Merchant Navy Day, brought together local dignitaries and members of the community to reflect on the immense contributions of seafarers.

The ceremony was marked by a poignant speech from the Lord-Lieutenant of Rutland, Dr. Sarah Furness. She spoke eloquently about the bravery and dedication of the men and women of the Merchant Navy, highlighting their crucial role in keeping the nation supplied, particularly during times of conflict and crisis. Dr. Furness's words underscored the enduring importance of the Merchant Navy's work, from transporting goods and raw materials to playing a key part in wartime operations.

Following her address, the flag was raised by a man who knows the service firsthand: Mark Woodcock. A former Merchant Navy man himself, Mr. Woodcock’s hands-on experience lent a special authenticity to the occasion. Mr. Woodcock, who is also a former Mayor of Oakham and a Town Councillor, performed the raising of the flag with a quiet dignity.

Rutland County Councillor Diane Ellison, (left) 

Councillor Kiloran Heckels (right)

Rupert Matthews Police and Crime Commissioner (left)

Cllr Dave Ainslie Uppingham Mayor (middle)

Councillor Kiloran Heckels

Oakham Mayor Cllr Chris Nix

The chairman of Rutland County Council 

Councillor Andrew Brown

Rutland and Oakham Travel to Leicester for Pride 2025 Photographs and Video #leicesterpride #leicesterpride 2025 #abbeypark

 

Rutland and Oakham Travel to Leicester for Pride 2025 Photographs and Video

Rutland and Oakham Travel to Leicester for Pride 2025

Sam Callahan

Thousands of people, including many from Oakham and Rutland, marched through Leicester city center on Saturday for Leicester Pride 2025. The vibrant parade made its way to Abbey Park, where a day of celebration and entertainment awaited.

The park was buzzing with activity, with numerous stalls offering a variety of gifts and merchandise, as well as community and health information stands. The air was filled with excitement as people gathered to celebrate love, diversity, and acceptance.

The main stage kicked off at 1:00 PM with a welcoming address before an incredible lineup of performers took the stage. The LGBT Choir set the tone with a powerful performance, followed by sets from Meg in Training, Lea Martin, and Marty Smith. TikTok sensation Alexis Blake and their husband also graced the stage, much to the delight of the crowd.

Drag artists Auntie Ginger, Ruby Violet, and Fanny Burns brought their unique flair and charisma, while singer and racing car driver Sam Callahan captivated the audience. The evening continued with performances from Amazing Faith, Matt Croke, Ashly Song, and Rainbow Frog Biscuits. The energy remained high with sets from Bexx and Danna Maria, who wowed the crowd with a tribute to Lady Gaga. The talented Josh Harrison also performed before the grand finale—a spectacular fireworks display at 9:00 PM.

The Helsinki Dance Arena was a major draw, packed with people from 2:00 PM onwards. The dancing started with a bang, as drag artist Fanny Burns hosted a lively game of bingo. The crowd went wild for a special appearance from Lars Fellows and Jordan Burrows, known for their time on the BBC reality dating show I Kissed A Boy.

The music truly got going at 3:00 PM with Just Soriah a resident DJ from The Nightingale Club in Birmingham. The dance floor stayed full with sets from Chris Blackmore of Gaydio, followed by Andy Smith. Live performances kept the energy soaring, including a set from the incredible Katherine Ellis. The party continued with Brat Disco and a final set from Robbie Lewis.

Beyond the main stages, the Dover Castle hosted a community stage that featured speakers and drag artists throughout the afternoon and evening, offering a more intimate setting for conversation and performances.

Leicester Pride 2025 was a fantastic day of community, music, and celebration, bringing together thousands of people to show their support for the LGBTQ+ community.

Photo Gallery:

Sam Callahan

Ruby Violet

Paloma Faith Tribute act Amazing Faith

Meg-in Training

Marty Smith

LGBT Choir

Leicester Pride Abbey Park Leicester 2025

Lea Martin and Marty Smith

Lea Martin

James Cockerill owner of Indigo pubs and bars 

and Kathrine Ellis Helsinki Dance Arena

Kathrine Ellis Helsinki Dance Arena

Chris Blackmore and Andy Smith Helsinki 

Dance Arena Leicester Pride 2025

Chris Blackmore Gaydio 

Helsinki Dance Arena Leicester Pride 2025

Alexis Blake & Liam Blake Leicester Pride 2025

Helsinki Dance Arena Leicester Pride 2025 

Fanny Burns and Helsinki Leicester Dancing Boys 

Leicester Pride 2025 Abbey Park Leicester

Aunty-Ginger 

Leicester Pride 2025 

Abbey Park Leicester 

Billy Bates Fun Fair 

Leicester Pride 2025 

Donna Marie Gaga 

Leicester Pride 2025 

Abbey Park Leicester 

Photos of Leicester Pride March Through City Centre:

https://oakhamandrutlandnews.blogspot.com/2025/08/leicester-pride-march-2025-kaleidoscope.html