Rutland Remembers V-J day, 75 years on

August 15th. We had plans for Rutland to celebrate the 75th anniversary of VJ day in style, in the company of Rutland’s many military veterans who I know would have been keen to attend such an event. Unfortunately, current restrictions to limit the spread of the Covid-19 virus make this difficult – especially as so many of the veterans who would wish to attend are of an age where contact with that virus would be particularly dangerous. So instead I organised small wreath-laying ceremonies at the war memorials in Whissendine, Oakham and Uppingham. I was so pleased that the High Sheriff of Rutland accompanied me.

I am particularly grateful to Nick Clarke of ‘Nick Clarke PR & Media’ for recording the following video so that all can, at a safe distance, share at a in our joint remembrance of those who suffered and died to preserve our liberty.

Post-lockdown Social Sunday in Uppingham

August 2nd: Flossie our dog was delighted to join me (wearing her best Burberry lead) in Uppingham for ‘Social Sunday’: an opportunity to meet, eat & greet in socially distanced fashion in the market square.

British Empire Medal awarded

August 2nd: A great honour to represent Her Majesty The Queen & present the British Empire Medal to David Ainslie of Uppingham, at a (socially distanced) ceremony at The Falcon Hotel. Amongst many other good works, David has been the driving force in establishing & running the hopper bus, a free service for all in Uppingham

Paul Harris Fellowships awarded in Uppingham

July 16th: A great pleasure to be at The Falcon Hotel, Uppingham for Uppingham #Rotary Club’s (socially distanced) award of the Paul Harris Fellowship for distinguished service to the community (posthumously) to Robert Wills. who did so much for Uppingham – and to my delight, also to me. I feel deeply pleased & honoured.