Oakham Town Council Sets New Course for HR and Summer Events in Extraordinary Meeting, 29th April Meeting Video

Oakham Town Council Sets New Course for HR and Summer Events in Extraordinary Meeting

by The Local Democracy Reporter,  ldreporter@post.com

Oakham Town Council convened an extraordinary meeting last night to address a series of pressing administrative and financial matters. The session, called by Councillors Sally-Anne Wadsworth and Martin Brookes, saw a quorum of six members gather alongside the Clerk and Acting Deputy Clerk to stabilise the council’s operational framework. While Chairman Chris Nix and Councillor Andrew Padmore were absent, the remaining members moved quickly to modernise the authority’s back-office functions and prepare for the 2026 summer season.

A significant portion of the evening was dedicated to professionalising the council’s internal structures. Following the retirement of the previous provider, members approved the retrospective appointment of a new HR services firm, a move deemed essential given the ongoing staffing challenges currently facing the authority. In a bid to bolster public confidence and ensure financial transparency, the council also voted to outsource its payroll to an external provider. Councillor Martin Brookes praised the decision, noting that the shift to an independent firm would help insulate the council from further allegations regarding financial management.

The council’s approach to public safety and land use showed a mix of progress and caution. While a new Public Spaces Letting Policy and standardised booking forms for parks like Cutts Close were adopted, the final rollout will be sent for review by the council’s insurers. Conversely, a proposed Children’s Safeguarding and Vulnerable Adults’ Policy was set aside after Councillor Paul Ainsley raised concerns regarding the potential costs of implementation. The council ultimately voted to defer the policy until staff can provide a full breakdown of the financial requirements needed to meet its standards.

Financial stewardship remained a focal point as the council authorized over £9,000 in spending for the town’s popular summer bands and associated advertising. The marketing strategy has shifted significantly; while the council will proceed with Rutland and Stamford Sound, it formally cancelled advertising previously booked with the Rutland Times. This cancellation followed revelations that the bookings were made by the Deputy Clerk who is not currently working, when the booking was made council had not given permission. The booking for the advertising and a band was carried out before the 2026-2027 budget had been finalised. 

In a separate financial decision, the council scaled back a grant request from All Saints Church for repairs to the church clock. Rather than the £2,000 requested, members agreed to a £500 contribution, which will be released only upon the successful completion of the work.

As the meeting drew to a close, the council looked toward future developments, though much remained behind closed doors. 

Members entered an exempt session to deliberate on a "Feasibility & Redevelopment Strategy" for Oakham’s sports facilities, a project spearheaded by Councillor Paul Ainsley. While the public must wait for a forthcoming report on that front, updates regarding the Princess Avenue lease renewal are expected as early as next month. 

Finally, to ensure robust internal oversight, the council reinforced its staffing committee by appointing Councillors Martin Brookes and John Harris, with Councillor Johnathon Nichols also expected to join the committee

For More News, Jobs, What's On, Discover Oakham and More Visit: https://oakhamandrutlandnews.co.uk/

Community, Accountability, and the Road Ahead. A Parliamentary Update from MP Alicia Kearns

Community, Accountability, and the Road Ahead. A Parliamentary Update from MP Alicia Kearns

By The Local Democracy Reporter. ldreporter@post.com

MP Alicia Kearns

As the heavy oak doors of Westminster swing shut for prorogation, the frantic pace of the legislative chamber has given way to a temporary silence. Prorogation marks the formal conclusion of a parliamentary session a "reset button" of sorts. While the debates and votes in London have paused until the King’s Speech on May 13th, the work of a Member of Parliament shifts from the green benches of the Commons back to the heart of the communities they serve. For the residents of Rutland, Harborough, and Stamford, this period is anything but a holiday.

Alicia says,

The closing of this session brought a momentous victory with the final passage of Benedict’s Law. Born from the tireless advocacy of the Benedict Blythe Foundation, this legislation serves as a vital legacy for a young life lost too soon, providing essential new protections for children with allergies. It is a somber but significant reminder of how local heartbreak can be transformed into national safety.

On the digital front, progress is visible across our skyline. Following a concerted effort to identify mobile "not-spots," nineteen signal upgrades have been completed by Vodafone-Three, spanning from Oakham to Stamford. This is the first phase of a broader commitment to bring 5G coverage to 99% of the constituency, ensuring our rural economy and social connections are not left behind in the digital age.

The pause in Parliament allows for a deeper focus on the persistent challenges facing our region. Significant friction remains regarding Local Government Reorganisation. The recent consultation process revealed a worrying "democratic deficit," and skepticism remains high regarding the purported benefits of these changes. Simultaneously, the fight for better infrastructure continues, with formal requests submitted to East Midlands Railway to review direct train timings from Oakham to London to better serve our commuters.

The news is not all positive, however. In Sleaford, the cancellation of a much-needed Special Educational Needs (SEN) school due to a failure by the Reform-led Lincolnshire County Council to respond to government correspondence is a staggering disappointment. Our children deserve proactive leadership, not administrative silence, and pressure is being applied to the Council to rectify this avoidable failure.

In her capacity as Shadow National Security and Safeguarding Minister, Alicia Kearns continues to challenge the government on issues of public safety. A major breakthrough was achieved by forcing a ban on non-fatal strangulation in pornography, a dangerous trend that has normalized violence against women. The campaign now shifts toward banning "self-swab" rape kits products that offer false reassurance while potentially compromising the forensic integrity of criminal prosecutions.

Furthermore, serious questions are being raised regarding national security and the vetting of public figures, alongside the slow implementation of recommendations from the Southport Inquiry. The proposal for a new offence of "planning a mass-casualty attack" remains a priority that the opposition refuses to let drop.

When Parliament returns on May 13th, the agenda will be set by the King’s Speech. This will begin a new chapter of scrutiny, particularly regarding the government's stance on GP referrals and the potential "rationing" of specialist care.

While the "battles" of Westminster will soon resume, the coming weeks are dedicated to the people of Rutland, Harborough, and Stamford from meeting with NHS trust leaders to discussing the "Family Farm Tax" with local land owners. The doors to Parliament may be closed, but the door to constituency support remains wide open.

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Community First, Oakham & Barleythorpe Police Update for April 2026

Community First,  Oakham & Barleythorpe Police Update for April 2026

As we embrace the arrival of spring, the Oakham & Barleythorpe Dedicated Neighbourhood Team remains committed to fostering a safe and supportive environment for all residents. This month, their operations have been driven directly by your feedback. Through community consultations, surveys, and a careful analysis of local crime trends, they have streamlined our efforts to tackle the issues that matter most to you.

Their strategy for April was built upon three core pillars: curbing anti-social behaviour, enhancing road safety, and disrupting local drug activity. Here is an overview of how your local officers, including PC Hughes and PCSO Lauren, have been working to meet these goals.

A primary concern raised by the community was the rise of Anti-Social Behaviour (ASB) in specific hotspots. In response, the team has maintained a high-visibility presence throughout the month. By conducting foot patrols and engaging directly with both residents and business owners, officers have been able to issue immediate advice and warnings to those involved in disruptive activity. This "boots on the ground" approach is designed not only to deter offenders but to provide much-needed reassurance to the public.

Parallel to these efforts, Road Safety has taken center stage. We heard your concerns regarding the lack of adherence to 30mph zones across Oakham and Barleythorpe. Throughout April, PC Hughes and the team have been actively monitoring speeds in identified key areas. These patrols serve as a dual-purpose tool: they allow us to deal robustly with poor driving standards while offering a proactive deterrent against speeding.

Addressing the reports of drug dealing and consumption remains a critical focus for the team. This month, PC Hughes and PCSO Lauren utilized stop-and-search powers during varied patrol shifts across town. These efforts resulted in two drug-related offences being processed. While numbers can fluctuate, the consistent pressure applied by the team ensures that those seeking to bring illegal substances into our community find it an increasingly difficult environment in which to operate.

As the weather warms, they often see a natural increase in outdoor activity. While they want our young people to enjoy the local area, they anticipate a potential seasonal rise in ASB. They are calling on parents and guardians to play an active role by discussing the impact of anti-social behaviour with their children. Respectful community engagement is a collective responsibility, and prevention starts with these vital conversations at home.

Your input is the lifeblood of effective local policing. You are invited to join the police for their upcoming Beat Surgery to discuss your concerns or simply to meet the officers serving your neighborhood:

Date: 28.05.2026

Location: Oakham Library

Purpose: A dedicated space to report concerns and get updates on local policing activity.

If you witness anti-social behaviour in the meantime, please do not hesitate to report it via the Leicestershire Police website. Together, we can ensure that Oakham and Barleythorpe remain safe and vibrant places to live.

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For more local news, community updates, and what's on in the area, visit Oakham and Rutland News.

Leicestershire Police, Rutland North Road Safety March 2026 Speed Enforcement Update

Leicestershire Police, Rutland North Road Safety March 2026 Speed Enforcement Update

Road safety remains a top priority for the Rutland North policing team. In a continued effort to reduce risk and respond to community concerns, PC 1741 Holly Bland has released the latest enforcement figures from the Road Safety Partnership mobile speed camera van for March 2026.

The data highlights a proactive approach to monitoring key routes, with varying levels of compliance across the beat area. While several locations showed high levels of driver responsibility, others remain significant "hotspots" for speeding offences.

The March 2026 Breakdown

The mobile enforcement van spent significant time across eleven specific locations in Rutland North this month. Here is a summary of the activity:

Cottesmore (Greetham Road) 2 visits (220 mins) 56 offences

Ryhall (A6121 Stamford Road) 1 visit (110 mins) 29 offences

Great Casterton (Old Great North Rd) 1 visit (100 mins) 10 offences

Whitwell (A606 Main Street) 1 visit (80 mins) 7 offences

Egleton (A6003 - 50mph) 1 visit (80 mins) 5 offences

Barnsdale (A606 Stamford Road) 2 visits (160 mins) 3 offences

Burley (B668 Cottesmore Road) 1 visit (90 mins) 1 offences

Greetham (B668 Oakham Road) 1 visit (80 mins) 1 offences

Notably, three locations Cottesmore (Village), Cottesmore (Rogues Lane), and Stretton (Stocken Hall Road) recorded zero offences during their respective monitoring periods, demonstrating excellent compliance with local speed limits.

The figures for Cottesmore (Greetham Road) and Ryhall stand out significantly. With 56 offences recorded in Greetham Road alone, it is clear that certain stretches of road continue to see high rates of non-compliance.

The Rutland North team emphasises that these enforcement locations are not chosen at random; they are identified through a combination of collision data, speed surveys, and direct feedback from residents who tell the police that road safety matters to them.

"We will continue to proactively patrol, use speed detection equipment, deal robustly with offenders, and work with partner agencies to tackle behaviour that puts others at risk."

— PC 1741 Holly Bland

While these figures focus on the Rutland North beat, the Road Safety Partnership operates extensively across Rutland South, Oakham, and Uppingham. The goal is a consistent presence across the county to ensure that the roads remain safe for drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians alike.

Residents looking for more detailed enforcement information or to see where the camera van might be next can visit the official Leicestershire Police Road Safety link.

The message from Rutland Police is clear: by staying within the limit, you aren't just avoiding a fine you are actively helping to reduce the risk of serious injury on local roads.

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Former Leicestershire Officer Barred Following Conviction for Assaulting Woman

Former Leicestershire Officer Barred Following Conviction for Assaulting Woman

A former Leicestershire police officer has been formally barred from the profession following a gross misconduct ruling triggered by a criminal conviction. The accelerated misconduct hearing, held on 21 April 2026, concluded that former PC 530 Cameron Graham would have been dismissed without notice had he not already left the force.

The proceedings followed Graham’s appearance at Leicester Crown Court on 12 January 2026, where he pleaded guilty to an offence of assault. The court heard that the incident took place at a nightclub in July 2022, during which Graham assaulted a woman by placing his hands on her body. The hearing determined that this act constituted an unwanted and serious invasion of the victim's personal space, carrying an adverse impact significant enough to cross the threshold into criminal behaviour.

The conduct was found to be a severe breach of the professional standards regarding Discreditable Conduct. Assistant Chief Constable James Avery, presiding over the hearing, noted that Graham did not attend the proceedings.

In evaluating the severity of the incident, the hearing assessed both culpability and harm as "high". Although the assault did not result in physical injury, the ruling emphasised that violence against women carries a profound risk of psychological harm. Under national policing guidance, such behavior is classified as "particularly serious" and is considered conduct likely to terminate a police career.

The ruling offered little in the way of mitigation, focusing instead on the gravity of the officer’s actions. ACC Avery underscored the necessity of maintaining the public's faith in the police service, which operates by public consent.

"There can be no place in the Police Service for men who harm women," Avery stated, concluding that the only way to preserve public confidence was to declare that dismissal would have been the mandatory outcome.

As a result of the finding of Gross Misconduct, Graham’s details will be added to the police barred list, effectively preventing him from serving in any UK police force in the future. Graham maintains a right of appeal against the decision, which must be submitted to the Office of the Police and Crime Commissioner within ten working days.

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Former Leicestershire Officer Barred Following "Appalled" Misconduct Ruling, after proactively arranged for sexual services and took practical steps to meet at an agreed location.

Former Leicestershire Officer Barred Following "Appalled" Misconduct Ruling

A former police officer has been formally barred from the profession after an accelerated misconduct hearing determined he would have been dismissed without notice for seeking sexual services. The hearing, held on 21 April 2026, focused on the actions of former PC 129 Noel Chambers of the Leicestershire Police AIU.

The misconduct proceedings centered on evidence that Chambers proactively arranged for sexual services and took practical steps to meet at an agreed location. Temporary Chief Constable David Sandall, who presided over the hearing, found the facts proved on the balance of probabilities, noting that the former officer’s actions were both planned and repeated.

In assessing the officer's culpability, the hearing determined it to be "high". The decision noted that Chambers was solely responsible for his conduct and had multiple opportunities to reflect on his actions and stop. The ruling emphasised that police training is explicit regarding acceptable standards of behavior and that there was "no conceivable excuse" for the officer's proactive communication and subsequent actions.

The hearing further found that Chambers’ conduct breached the professional standards of "Discreditable Conduct," citing the severe damage such behavior does to the reputation of the police service. A central theme of the ruling was the inherent vulnerability and exploitation present in the sex trade, as recognized by National Police Guidance.

"I suspect that the public would be appalled by the conduct," T/CC Sandall stated, assessing both actual and potential harm as high. The ruling argued that the officer’s behavior had a significant adverse effect on his standing, particularly given his role in a profession that should protect the vulnerable. Furthermore, while Chambers was not convicted of a crime, the hearing assessed his actions as criminal conduct, which served as an aggravating factor.

Although Chambers had already resigned from the force and admitted to misconduct in public office, the hearing was required to determine what the outcome would have been had he still been serving. T/CC Sandall noted that while admissions are credited, the evidence against the former officer was "overwhelming".

The hearing found a lack of sincere regret or understanding from Chambers, who instead offered justifications based on his own personal vulnerabilities arguments the Chief Constable found did not justify his actions.

Ultimately, the hearing concluded that the only appropriate outcome to protect public confidence and maintain professional standards was dismissal without notice. Consequently, Chambers has been added to the Police Barred List, preventing him from serving as a police officer in the future.

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Former Inspector Carl Mee Found Guilty of Gross Misconduct Following Domestic Violence Order

Former Inspector Carl Mee Found Guilty of Gross Misconduct Following Domestic Violence Order

"While the hearing took place in July 2025, the matter can only now be reported after the court lifted restrictions that had previously prohibited the publication of the officer’s identity and the details of ongoing proceedings."

A former high-ranking officer with Leicestershire Police, Inspector Carl Mee, has been found guilty of gross misconduct following an accelerated hearing chaired by Chief Constable Steven Cooper. The ruling concluded that the former inspector’s conduct was so severe that he would have been dismissed without notice had he not already retired from the force.

The proceedings, held on July 3, 2025, centered on a Domestic Violence Protection Order (DVPO) issued against Mee by the Leicester Magistrates’ Court. The court had previously found, on the balance of probabilities, that Mee had been violent or threatened violence toward an individual and that the order was a necessary measure to ensure their protection. While Mee did not attend the misconduct hearing, his representative argued that the order was a "procedural workaround" and contested the underlying allegations of violence.

In his determination, Chief Constable Cooper made it clear that the hearing was not intended to re-litigate the criminal facts but to assess the impact of such a court order on the reputation of the police service. He ruled that the mere existence of a DVPO against a serving officer constitutes "Discreditable Conduct." The Chief Constable noted that the public expects officers to uphold the law and protect the vulnerable; being the subject of a court order specifically designed to prevent domestic abuse fundamentally undermines that trust.

The assessment of the case categorized the harm to public confidence as "high." Chief Constable Cooper emphasised that violence against women and girls is a matter of significant national concern and that the police must be beyond reproach in this area. As an Inspector, Mee held a leadership position that required him to serve as a role model, an aggravating factor that weighed heavily in the final decision. Mee’s defense, which characterized the court's decision as a "policing failure," was seen as a failure to recognize the significance of the court’s findings, further increasing his culpability.

Ultimately, the Chief Constable determined that no sanction other than dismissal would suffice to maintain public confidence. Because Mee had already retired in June 2025, the formal outcome was a declaration that he would have been dismissed had he remained in service. Consequently, his name will be added to the Police Barred List, ensuring he can never hold a position in law enforcement again.

"This is a very serious matter," Chief Constable Cooper stated, reinforcing that such conduct will not be tolerated within Leicestershire Police. The ruling serves as a stark reminder of the high standards of professional behavior expected of those who wear the uniform, regardless of their rank or length of service.

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For more local news, community updates, and what's on in the area, visit Oakham and Rutland News.

Luxury Brands at High-Street Prices, The Derby Thrifter Left Stunned by Oakham's "Punchy" Charity Shops

Luxury Brands at High-Street Prices, The Derby Thrifter Left Stunned by Oakham's "Punchy" Charity Shops

For most seasoned bargain hunters, the allure of a charity shop lies in the "adrenaline rush" of finding a hidden gem for a fraction of its original cost. However, for Lola Amuah, a Derby-based thrifter who recently showcased her skills on the BBC’s Shift the Thrift, a trip to the picturesque town of Oakham in Rutland delivered a different kind of shock. Instead of the usual modest prices, Lola found herself "floored" by a high-street establishment where the price tags felt more like a luxury boutique than a community fundraiser.

The visit, which Lola documented alongside her husband Pete, began with high expectations as the couple spotted Jimmy Choo and Gucci footwear displayed in the shop window. Once inside, the parade of designer names continued, with Lola quickly identifying a brand-new Lanvin scarf, tags still intact, priced at £18. This was followed by a pair of DKNY handbags that had been donated together, each carrying a £40 price tag a discovery that sparked a debate between the couple regarding the quality and "desirability" of the leather.

As they moved through the store, the prices only became more "punchy." A silk Burberry scarf sat secured inside a glass cabinet with a £70 price tag, resting beside a designer bracelet valued at £60. While these prices represent a significant discount from retail, they signal a growing trend in affluent market towns where charity shops are increasingly curating "gold label" sections that target a wealthier demographic

The most polarising moment of the trip, however, occurred in the bric-a-brac aisle. Lola picked up a nostalgic Andy Pandy mug, only to find it was priced at £10 and that was only after being marked down from £15. Pete noted that he had previously seen the same item for as little as 50p, highlighting a massive discrepancy in how different shops value nostalgia and vintage collectibles.

The reaction from the online community was swift and divided. While some argued that the high prices are a natural result of the affluent donations found in a town like Oakham, others were far more critical. One Instagram user labeled the pricing "ridiculous," suggesting that "rich towns" have become no-go zones for genuine bargain hunters. Another local resident chimed in to confirm that Oakham has earned a reputation for hosting "the most expensive charity shops" in the region.

Despite the sticker shock, Lola remains a staunch advocate for the secondhand movement. She maintains that thrifting is not just about the cost, but about sustainability and the unique thrill of finding items that are "super old or super rare." While the Oakham trip may have been an expensive lesson in regional price variations, Lola’s appreciation for the hunt remains intact, even if she left the £10 mug on the shelf.

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Serenity Flutes to Perform in Support of St Peter’s Chancel Roof, Barrowden, 15th May 2026

Serenity Flutes to Perform in Support of St Peter’s Chancel Roof

By Susan Shaw 

Kindly submit all event details to susanshaw@post.com.

Barrowden is set to host an evening of "sparkling and tuneful music" as the Serenity Flutes ensemble takes the stage for a special fundraising concert. On Friday, 15th May 2026, the community will gather at St Peter’s Church to enjoy a performance dedicated to a vital local cause: the replacement of the church’s Chancel Roof.

The concert promises a relaxing journey through diverse musical landscapes. The program for two flutes and piano features a blend of classical masterpieces and whimsical modern pieces, including:

Mozart’s Overture from The Marriage of Figaro, Delibes' Flower Duet, and Debussy’s Menuet from The Petite Suite.

Quantz’s Trio Sonata in C minor and Chon’s Double Tootin’ Flutes.

Joplin’s Cascades Rag and Köhler’s Valse des Fleurs.

Herman Beeftink’s Fireflies.

The performers describe the setlist as a chance to "marvel at the appearance of fireflies at dusk" or "dance a ragtime" through the power of live music.

Event Details

The doors to St Peter’s Church will open at 7:00 PM, with a bar available for attendees to enjoy a drink before the music commences at 7:30 PM.

Location: St Peter’s Church, Barrowden.

Tickets: £12 per person.

Beneficiary: All proceeds will go directly toward the St Peter’s Church Chancel Roof replacement.

How to Support the Cause

Tickets are available through several convenient channels:

• In-Person: Barrowden Community Shop.

• Online: wegottickets.com/event/696516/.

• Phone: Contact Steve Preston (07754 118257) or Chris Barrett (01572 747628).

For those who wish to preview the ensemble’s sound before the big night, more information can be found at www.serenityflutes.uk. Don't miss this opportunity to support a piece of Barrowden’s heritage while enjoying a beautiful spring evening of music.

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Spring Into Season at the North Luffenham Garden Club Plant Sale, 30th May

Spring Into Season at the North Luffenham Garden Club Plant Sale

By Susan Shaw 

Kindly submit all event details to susanshaw@post.com.

Gardeners and nature enthusiasts should mark their calendars for Saturday, 30th May, as the North Luffenham Garden Club hosts its highly anticipated annual plant sale. Held at The Fox in North Luffenham, this much-loved village event will run from 10:00 am to 1:00 pm, offering a wide variety of flora to help local gardens flourish.

The sale features a diverse selection of plants, many of which have been lovingly grown and nurtured by members of the North Luffenham Garden Club (NLGC). Shoppers can expect special prices on a variety of categories, including:

Bedding Plants: Brighten up your borders and containers with a vibrant selection of annuals.

Perennials: Find long-lasting additions to your garden landscape.

Herbs & Vegetables: Start your own kitchen garden with fresh, healthy starts.

House Plants: Bring the outdoors in with a range of indoor greenery.

Garden Sundries: Essential tools and accessories to help your garden thrive.

For those arriving early or looking to take a break while browsing, The Fox will be serving breakfast refreshments between 10:00 am and 11:30 am. Visitors can enjoy a bacon bap alongside a fresh cup of tea or coffee before diving back into the plant selection.

Event Details at a Glance

Date: Saturday, 30th May 2026.

Time: 10:00 am – 1:00 pm (Breakfast served until 11:30 am).

Venue: The Fox, North Luffenham.

Payment: Both card and cash are accepted.

This event is a fantastic opportunity to find high-quality plants at reasonable prices while supporting local garden enthusiasts. Whether you are a seasoned gardener or just starting out with a few window boxes, there is sure to be something to catch your eye at this year's sale.

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A Centennial Celebration of Nature The Uffington Scarecrow Festival 2026, Sunday, May 3 – Monday, May 4

A Centennial Celebration of Nature The Uffington Scarecrow Festival 2026

By Susan Shaw 

Kindly submit all event details to susanshaw@post.com.

Uffington Scarecrow Festival 2018

Photo by Martin Brookes

Mark your calendars for a May Bank Holiday weekend unlike any other. 

On Sunday, May 3 and Monday, May 4, 2026, the picturesque village of Uffington transforms into a vibrant gallery of straw and creativity for its annual Scarecrow Festival.

This year’s event carries a special significance as the village unites under the theme "Our Planet & the Natural World". The festival is dedicated to celebrating the 100th birthday of Sir David Attenborough, honoring his century of dedication to wildlife conservation.

Festival Essentials

Dates: Sunday, May 3 – Monday, May 4, 2026.

Time: 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM (16:00).

Venue: Uffington Road Playing Fields, Stamford (PE9 2EX).

Admission: Still just £5 per car, which includes parking and a festival Quiz Sheet. For those arriving on foot, Quiz Sheets are available for £2.50.

The festival offers a quintessential British village experience, drawing over 5,000 visitors each year with its blend of creative displays and family activities.

The heart of the festival is the Scarecrow Quiz Trail. Residents and local groups create intricate displays reflecting the natural world theme, often featuring creative tributes to Sir David Attenborough himself. Visitors can wander the village to identify hidden clues and crack the quiz.

Keep your eyes on the skies for a scheduled Flypast, a perennial highlight of the weekend. Back on solid ground, visitors can enjoy:

A Miniature Steam Train and Model Railway.

Farm Machinery displays and a Classic Car show.

A Ride-on Mini Fire Engine and potentially a real fire engine, emergencies permitting.

On Sunday, the popular Dog Show takes center stage, typically starting at 1:00 PM with classes such as "Dog & Owner Lookalike". Throughout the weekend, visitors can also meet friendly Alpacas or try their hand at the legendary local pastime of Welly Wanging.

Whether you're looking for a unique handmade gift or a classic treat, the festival grounds have you covered:

The Craft Barn, Showcasing talented local makers and artisans.

Stalls Galore, Browse through pre-loved items, books, and plants, or try your luck at various Tombola's.

Live Music, Enjoy performances from the village Bandstand that give the afternoon a proper festival feel.

Traditional Fun: Includes Bouncy Castles, Face Painting, and Church Tower Tours.

Food & Drink: A classic BBQ, homemade food stalls, ice creams, and cake stalls are available to keep your energy up.

Beyond the "good-natured chaos" and stunning scarecrows, the festival remains a community-driven event. By keeping admission prices low at a rate that hasn't changed in approximately 15 years the village ensures that celebrating this milestone for our planet remains accessible to everyone.

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