‘Topping Out’ Oakham Grange

It was exciting to take part in the topping out ceremony for Oakham Grange Nursing Home in Barleythorpe.  This thoughtfully designed development will provide assisted care for the elderly. Congratulations to all at Clegg Construction & Ardale.  It’s looking great already and clearly will be beautiful.

Edna Bennett’s 100th Birthday

The sun shone for Edna Bennett’s 100th birthday on Saturday. Belton House  and Edna’s family put on a great party – 2 cakes, balloons & bunting. Best of all was a special birthday card from Her Majesty The Queen.

Lieutenancy cadet Investiture

September 19th – we held the investiture of the new Lord-Lieutenant’s cadets, and thanked the cadets who have completed their year of office, at Casterton Community College.  We were greatly assisted by representatives of all three armed forces demonstrating what could be in store for young people who join the cadets.

The cadet organisations make a huge difference to young people, teaching so many life skills that are immensely valuable whether or not they choose to join the armed forces. And they have fun at the same time. It was a great privilege to welcome the new Lieutenancy cadets.

Beating the Retreat

September 12th: We heard some great band music thanks to the band of The Parachute Regiment (now known as the British Army Band) Beating the Retreat in Oakham market square in aid of the soldier’s charity ABF – A great Rutland tradition.

Party in the Park

September 8th: I am really grateful to all who helped to deliver the Party in the Park at Cutts Close today, held to celebrate and thank Rutland’s large military community and the many veterans and their families who live in Rutland.  I thought it went extremely well and I have received lots of requests to ensure that it runs again next year.

What a variety of contributions too!  Music included live rock from Manky Beds as well as the Hathern Brass Band.  Representation from our armed forces and their many support groups was excellent.  Even including the Armed Forces Bikers Club and the Royal British Legion Bikers Club, who seemed to get on extremely well!

Marking Merchant Navy Day

Sept 3rd:  Thanks to Merchant Navy man Captain Bob Strick (retired) for raising the ‘Red Duster’ this morning to mark Merchant Navy Day. The Merchant Navy has made and continues to make a huge difference to our country so thanks to all who have served & to those who still do.

He also lowered the flag at home in Whissendine at sunset!

LN&R Army Cadet Camp

August 19th:  Thanks for the invitation to visit this event. Nearly 500 young people gained skills, made friends, learned to cope away from home, practised field craft, shooting, archery, canoeing, surf boarding & more at annual camp of the Leicestershire, Northamptonshire and Rutland Army Cadets at Lydd. Great opportunities & fun for cadets, thanks all volunteer officers & helpers.